A former Centreville police officer accused of selling guns not belonging to him for a profit has been arrested.
State Auditor Shad White reports that Patrick Harris sold three semi-automatic pistols belonging to the Centreville Police Department to an unspecified pawn shop. Harris reportedly pawned his assigned service pistol at the pawn shop. A few months later, the former officer also allegedly took two pistols from the evidence/property room and pawned them off as well.
“We have zero tolerance for thievery of taxpayer dollars, big or small,” White said. “We will continue to work hand in hand with prosecutors to ensure your money is spent the way it should be.”
If convicted, Harris faces up to $5,000 in fines and up to 20 years in prison.
Suspected fraud can be reported to the Auditor’s office at any time by clicking here or calling (1-800)-321-1275 during regular business hours.
