An Arkansas police chief and his son were arrested on multiple charges, as put forth by the Poinsett County Sheriff's Office. Chief Eric Moore of Harrisburg is facing accusations of supplying weaponry to a felon and unauthorized ACIC information disclosure, while his son, Brandon Moore, has been charged with firearm possession as a felon and several counts of criminal impersonation.
The cascade of events was triggered on April 4 when Harrisburg Mayor Justin Kimble expressed anxieties about Chief Moore allowing his felonious son to join him in a patrol car on active duty. Such reports, including witness testimonies from deputies and police officers, saw Brandon in his father's police vehicle, geared up and meddling with sensitive law enforcement data, according to FOX13 Memphis. Chief Moore's charges include furnishing a handgun or prohibited weapon to a felon and three counts of release or disclosure of ACIC information to an unauthorized person. His bond has been set at $5,000.
Noteworthy is that Brandon Moore's charges are associated with his activities while in the accompaniment of his father. He allegedly took part in enforcement calls, even assuming the role of an officer to unsuspecting civilians during pursuits and traffic stops, as outlined by Action News 5. Officers voiced concerns about Brandon's presence and activities, but were hesitant to speak up for fear of retribution. The demand for a proper probe by Mayor Kimble led to the subsequent arrests. Brandon Moore's bond was considerably steeper, set at $25,000.
Their arrests yesterday brought a wave of disbelief among the Harrisburg citizenry. Local resident Destiny Duncan expressed her dismay to Action News 5, questioning how the father and son could secure a quick bond release given the gravity of their charges. "How are they gonna get bonded out just like that? Especially if you're a felon and have a firearm," Duncan said, reflecting broader community concerns over the perceived swift release of those sworn to protect and serve.
Moreover, the investigation delved into instances where Brandon Moore not only sported police attire but also interacted with the public during official police actions, offering a false veneer of authority. In one described situation, relayed by WREG, an officer observed Brandon seated next to an automatic rifle during a traffic stop—despite his status as a felon barred from firearms. The depth of Brandon's involvement underscores a profound breach of trust and responsibility within the Harrisburg Police Department.
