A grand jury has called for the disbandment of the Hanceville Police Department in Alabama after an investigation reportedly uncovered widespread corruption, evidence tampering and criminal activity within the force.
Concerns over misconduct within the Hanceville Police Department came to light following the August 2023 death of dispatcher Christopher Michael Willingham, which was later allegedly linked to police negligence and an unsecured evidence room, ABC 33/40 reported.
A deeper investigation, led by the State Bureau of Investigation, revealed a culture of corruption within the department, including drug distribution, misuse of police resources and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
On Wednesday, five Hanceville police officers, including Chief Jason Shane Marlin and a spouse of one officer, were indicted on multiple felony charges. These included drug distribution, solicitation of controlled substances, use of office for personal gain and tampering with physical evidence.
Investigators also allegedly found that the department's evidence room was unsecure, with unauthorized personnel able to access and manipulate evidence. Photos showed a hole in the wall through which officers reportedly used a broomstick to unlock the door.
The grand jury determined that the department was operating as a "criminal enterprise" rather than a law enforcement agency.
The City of Hanceville is now faced with a critical decision on whether or not to disband its police department, a move recommended by the grand jury. Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry has stated that his office is prepared to provide law enforcement services if the department is dissolved.
Meanwhile, an audit of the evidence room has been ordered to assess the full extent of evidence mishandling.
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