Two off-duty Memphis Police Department (MPD) officers, identified as Albert Green, 40, and Raphael Willingham, 37, found themselves on the wrong side of the law after being arrested for allegedly drag racing by the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), reported Action News 5. The arrests took place early Sunday morning when a THP trooper observed two silver Corvettes, which were reported to have been speeding along Winchester Road near Hickory Hill Road. The trooper's attempt to curb speeding was well-timed, catching both drivers as they "braked" upon noticing the patrol.
After pulling over the vehicles, the THP trooper charged both officers with drag racing. Despite the charges, one of the officers, Albert Green, contended that they were not engaged in such activity, as described by a statement to WREG.
In light of these events, MPD issued a statement, expressing, "These actions do not reflect the professional standards or expectations of the men and women of the Memphis Police Department," a sentiment that was echoed by Action News 5. The department has taken steps to distance itself from the event by relieving both officers of duty pending the outcome of the investigation, confirming the high stakes when those charged with upholding the law themselves stand accused of breaking it.
While the streets lay claim to the rule of law, neighbors of the accused stood distant when approached on Monday. A woman at Green's residence, where his silver Corvette was listed in court records, gave no answers, according to what was relayed to FOX13 Memphis. Following their arrests, Green made a court appearance Monday morning, while Willingham is set to face the judge on Tuesday at 9 a.m.
The incident has brought to the surface wider concerns raised by Police Chief CJ Davis, who previously addressed issues of drag racing and reckless driving. With an emphasis on community responsibility, Davis had highlighted, "So we all have to be good stewards under the wheel," indicating a crack in the vanguard when officers themselves are implicated. Court records now show each officer out on a $4,000 bond, while the department and the community at large await the next turn in this unfolding drama.
