HARRISBURG, PA — Former Arnold Police Department Chief Joshua Stanga is facing criminal charges in connection with a misconduct investigation spearheaded by the Office of Attorney General and the Pennsylvania State Police. The charges stem from a professional integrity test conducted in August, during which agents placed nearly $300 in cash and placebo OxyContin pills inside an abandoned vehicle in Arnold.
As part of the sting operation, the vehicle was reported to police. Stanga, 41, responded to the scene and is alleged to have taken most of the money while filing a police report that inaccurately documented the incident. The report mentioned only $35 of the cash and the pills, omitting the majority of the money.
Charged with multiple misdemeanor counts, including theft by unlawful taking, misapplication of entrusted property, obstructing administration of law, unsworn falsification to law enforcement, and tampering with physical evidence, Stanga is now under scrutiny for actions that Attorney General Michelle Henry described as a betrayal of public trust. “This defendant is charged with offenses that betray the trust of the community which he was sworn to serve and the many officers who perform their duties every day with bravery and integrity,” stated Henry.
Pennsylvania State Police Captain James Cuttitta echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of integrity in law enforcement. “Members of law enforcement are entrusted to have the highest standards of integrity, and these charges show that no one is above the law,” he noted. The investigation underscores law enforcement’s commitment to maintaining public trust.
Stanga, who has been on administrative leave since mid-August, was released on his own recognizance following his arraignment, meaning he was not required to post bail. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 3. The prosecution will be led by Senior Deputy Attorney General Tomm Mutschler. It remains essential to note that all charges are allegations at this stage, and Stanga is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.