Entire NC Police Department Suspended After Arrest of Chief and Lieutenant

According to reports, an entire North Carolina police department was suspended after their police chief and lieutenant were arrested.

Southport Police Department Chief Gary Smith and Lieutenant Michael Simmons were arrested and are reportedly facing many charges including willful failure to discharge duties, conspiracy to obtain property by false pretenses, and obstruction of justice.

These charges stem from the two men being accused of driving overnight shifts for a trucking company while they were allegedly on the clock at the police department. The two allegedly took the job that led them to travel out the city and county to perform truck driving duties while they were supposed to be on patrol in Southport, North Carolina. After being arrested, Gary Smith’s bail was set at $10,000 which he posted.

Michael Simmons was reportedly arrested during a press conference that took place concerning the investigation.

Source: WGN