(CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS) – A Metro East police chief spent more than $100,000 of public money intended to combat drug use and support a local fire protection district on personal expenses, including basketball tickets, travel, and diamond engagement ring, according to a federal indictment.
A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment on Tuesday charging now former Carlyle Police Chief Mark Pingsterhaus on wire fraud and theft of public money counts. He resigned in December after the federal investigation became public.
“We strongly support law enforcement because the overwhelming majority of officers service with dedication, honor and courage. But when any officer, especially the chief, betrays the community they are sworn to protect, we will take decisive action,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Illinois Steven. D. Weinhoeft in a statement.
Investigation…
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