HAGERSTOWN, Md. – Hagerstown Police Chief Victor Brito announced Friday, Feb. 2 that one of the department’s officers had been arrested and charged in connection to stealing drugs with the intent to sell them.
Christopher Barnett, a 14-year veteran of the department, was arrested Thursday, Feb. 1 at his home in Pennsylvania after police received a tip showing evidence that Barnett engaged in illegal activity.
“I cannot and will not make any excuses for this betrayal of our agency, badge, and community. I’m personally deeply disappointed and quite frankly sickened by this criminal act,” Brito said. “That said, I know in my heart that the men and women I serve with on HPD do so with integrity and selfless dedication every day.”
Barnett was charged with one felony count of distribution/controlled dangerous substance and five misdemeanors. He has been suspended without pay pending the outcome of the investigation.
The full press conference is available HERE.