CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police officer was arrested after he allegedly stole from a person he was arresting, detectives said.
The incident happened a little after 4 p.m. on March 14, according to CMPD. The suspect told detectives Henry Chapman stole $900 from him while being taken into custody. Chapman was charged with one count of embezzlement.
CMPD's internal affairs department is conducting its own investigation into the incident. Chapman is on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of CMPD's investigation.
Chief Johnny Jennings issued the following statement following Chapman's arrest:
“This is deeply disappointing for our organization. We hold ourselves to the highest standards, and a violation of that trust is a serious offense. However, I want to assure the public that we take all allegations seriously, and we will not tolerate misconduct within our ranks. I’m proud that the supervisor and other officers on scene took immediate and decisive action to investigate the situation and determine that our officer needed to be arrested. No CMPD employee is above the law."
Chapman joined the force in September 2009 and is currently assigned to the University City division.
Note: WCNC instituted a policy in March 2021 regarding the broadcast or posting of mugshots.
WCNC will only air or post a mugshot if the person has been formally charged with a crime and in a few other cases. The exceptions include: If it appears the person could be a danger to themselves or others or if they are wanted by authorities; to differentiate between people with a common name; if the photos could encourage more victims to come forward. The news-editorial leadership may also decide to use a mugshot based on the severity of the crime(s) committed and/or the level of public interest in the crime and ensuing criminal proceedings.
WCNC Charlotte is choosing to show the mugshot of the suspect in this case due to his public-facing position and allegations of abusing his power.