A sergeant with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department is facing charges of internet child exploitation, the department confirmed in a recent public release. The officer, a 12-year veteran of the force, was arrested this past Monday following an investigation led by a unit specializing in internet crimes against children. As of now, the officer's identity has not been disclosed as charges by prosecutors are still pending, according to The Associated Press.
Previously assigned to the Indianapolis police's internal affairs unit, the sergeant’s actions have prompted a swift response from the department. The tip that led to the arrest stemmed from a report filed by The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children on August 6. It indicated that material concerning the sexual exploitation of children had been uploaded or downloaded on the internet. A source within the department revealed that an Internet Protocol address was linked to a personal router registered under the name of the sergeant, as reported by ABC News.
Upon arrest, Indianapolis Police Chief Chris Bailey took immediate action against the officer, suspending him and submitting a recommendation for termination to the Civilian Police Merit Board. Expressing his concern, Chief Bailey said, "I am profoundly shocked and disturbed by the allegations involving an IMPD officer," and further described the situation as "a betrayal of the sacred oath we take to protect and serve our community," according to WFFT.
The further details of the case remain under investigation. Updates will follow as they become available.
