Hanceville, Ala., is in the midst of a complete overhaul of its police department following a grand jury’s discovery of what it called a “rampant culture of corruption” within the small force. The city council voted to suspend department operations immediately and begin the search for a new police chief to lead the rebuilding effort.
The grand jury had indicted four officers and the police chief in February on allegations of mishandling evidence, prompting the council’s decision to disband the department. District Attorney Champ Crocker also released preliminary results of an evidence room audit, revealing missing items such as drugs and firearms.
During a public meeting, some residents expressed sympathy for department employees, while others felt it was time for a fresh start. The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office has taken over law enforcement duties as the city officials determine the future of the police department.
Cullman County D.A. Crocker highlighted the lack of security in the evidence room, showing photos of a hole in the wall and makeshift tools used to access the room. The State Bureau of Investigations was also brought in after a police dispatcher was found dead from a suspected drug overdose.
Hanceville, located about 45 miles north of Birmingham, now faces the task of rebuilding its police force from scratch amidst allegations of corruption and mishandling of evidence. City officials are committed to restoring public trust and ensuring the new department operates with integrity and accountability.
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