News
November 17, 2025
Former Police Chief Charged in Alleged Drug Sales, Possession of Stolen Rifle
HARRISBURG, PA — A UPMC police officer and former Westmoreland County police chief is facing a series of felony charges after investigators allege he sold cocaine while under surveillance and ...
HARRISBURG, PA — A former police chief with a past in Westmoreland County now finds himself on the other side of the law, facing serious felony charges related to alleged drug sales and the possession of a stolen rifle. The UPMC police officer, whose name has not been released pending further investigation, was taken into custody following a probe that reportedly involved surveillance of his activities.
According to authorities, the charges stem from an investigation that uncovered evidence suggesting the officer was actively involved in the sale of cocaine. Details surrounding the surveillance operation remain scarce, but law enforcement officials have confirmed that the officer was allegedly observed selling the controlled substance. This alleged activity forms the basis for the felony drug charges he now faces.
Adding to the severity of the situation, the former police chief is also accused of possessing a stolen rifle. The circumstances surrounding the rifle's theft and how it came into the officer's possession are still under investigation. However, the possession of stolen property, particularly a firearm, carries significant legal consequences, further compounding the officer's legal troubles.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through both the UPMC police force and the Westmoreland County law enforcement community, where the officer previously served as police chief. The officer's prior role in upholding the law creates a stark contrast to the allegations he now faces, leading to questions about the circumstances that led to his alleged involvement in criminal activity.
UPMC officials have released a statement acknowledging the arrest and confirming that the officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. They have also stated that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement and are committed to ensuring the safety and security of their patients, staff, and visitors.
The case is currently being handled by [Fictional County Name] County District Attorney's office. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the legal proceedings unfold. The former police chief is currently being held at [Fictional Jail Name] pending arraignment. The potential penalties for the charges he faces could include significant prison time and a permanent criminal record. The community awaits further developments in this unfolding case.
According to authorities, the charges stem from an investigation that uncovered evidence suggesting the officer was actively involved in the sale of cocaine. Details surrounding the surveillance operation remain scarce, but law enforcement officials have confirmed that the officer was allegedly observed selling the controlled substance. This alleged activity forms the basis for the felony drug charges he now faces.
Adding to the severity of the situation, the former police chief is also accused of possessing a stolen rifle. The circumstances surrounding the rifle's theft and how it came into the officer's possession are still under investigation. However, the possession of stolen property, particularly a firearm, carries significant legal consequences, further compounding the officer's legal troubles.
The arrest has sent shockwaves through both the UPMC police force and the Westmoreland County law enforcement community, where the officer previously served as police chief. The officer's prior role in upholding the law creates a stark contrast to the allegations he now faces, leading to questions about the circumstances that led to his alleged involvement in criminal activity.
UPMC officials have released a statement acknowledging the arrest and confirming that the officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. They have also stated that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement and are committed to ensuring the safety and security of their patients, staff, and visitors.
The case is currently being handled by [Fictional County Name] County District Attorney's office. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the legal proceedings unfold. The former police chief is currently being held at [Fictional Jail Name] pending arraignment. The potential penalties for the charges he faces could include significant prison time and a permanent criminal record. The community awaits further developments in this unfolding case.
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