On Saturday, November 10th, Prince George’s County Police Chief Hank Stawinski announced the suspension of a Prince George’s County Police Officer after two citizens alleged that the officer demanded payment to overlook motor vehicle violations during two separate traffic stops.
One resident came forward to police Friday alleging that he paid the officer in question cash during a traffic stop at the officer’s demand in lieu of receiving a citation. Chief Stawinski immediately launched an internal affairs investigation. In the early hours of the investigation, a second citizen came forward who alleged the same officer also demanded payment for leniency during a similar traffic stop.
The officer’s police powers were suspended Friday evening while detectives investigate. If any resident has had a similar encounter, please call our Internal Affairs Division at 301-772-4795.
The case will be reviewed by the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office.
“It is very early in this investigation, but I wanted to assure our community that immediate action was taken and a thorough investigation is underway. I take these allegations very seriously. Maintaining the public trust is the highest priority. As soon as the investigation develops more information, I will provide additional facts to our community,” said Chief Stawinski.
There are reports on ABC7 and on WUSA9.