A Mecklenburg County Detention Officer, identified as Seth El, is facing charges of misdemeanor larceny after an investigation prompted by reports of missing money from personal belongings, revealed the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office. According to WBTV, the arrest occurred yesterday, and has led to El's termination from the sheriff's department as of the same day.
Reports emerged after surveillance footage at the detention facility hinted at possible theft, leading to further scrutiny by the sheriff's office. A warrant for El's arrest was issued upon gathering evidence, which alleged the theft of $190, as detailed in an arrest warrant. "The actions that led to this decision are troubling and inconsistent with the values of the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office," Sheriff Garry L. McFadden stated according to a WCNC report. "While it is never easy to terminate an officer, we have a duty to hold everyone accountable for their actions."
El, who began his employment with the sheriff's office in March 2020, was reportedly taken into custody Monday afternoon with a written promise to appear in court. The loss of El's position within the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office underscores the culmination of an unwelcome episode for the agency, which holds itself to standards purportedly betrayed by El's actions.
Sheriff McFadden underscored the importance of accountability irrespective of one's status within the law enforcement hierarchy. "While it is never easy to terminate an officer, we have a duty to hold everyone accountable for their actions and to protect the integrity that defines the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office," he explained, in a sentiment echoing throughout his office's response to the incident, as reported by QC News. El's arraignment details remain pending following his release with a promise to reappear before the judicial system.
