HARRISBURG, PA — A former North Braddock police officer has been charged with drug trafficking and providing sensitive law enforcement information to assist a trafficker in avoiding police detection. Attorney General Michelle Henry announced the charges on Wednesday in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pennsylvania State Police.
The 51st Statewide Investigating Grand Jury recommended charges against Craig Gibson, who is alleged to have been a cocaine runner in Allegheny and Westmoreland counties while serving as a police officer. The Office of Attorney General presented evidence suggesting that Gibson provided privileged information to his supplier to help evade police.
The FBI initiated the investigation, supported by the Pennsylvania State Police Western Organized Crime Unit. Gibson faces charges of felony corrupt organizations, delivery of cocaine, hindering prosecution, and other offenses. He was released on a non-monetary bond and is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on July 8 at 1 p.m.
“This collaborative investigation uncovered a cocaine trafficking ring that allegedly involved an officer of the law participating in the dealing and using his resources as an officer to shield the operation from police detection,” Attorney General Henry said. “When law enforcement officers break the law they are sworn to uphold, it undermines the entire criminal justice system.”
FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek echoed these sentiments. “The arrest of a law enforcement officer accused of abusing his position to line his own pockets through the drug trade stands among the most dangerous and disheartening events for our community,” he said. “Trust lies at the cornerstone of protecting our communities.”
Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Adam Reed emphasized the importance of holding law enforcement to high standards. “Troopers and local law enforcement work tirelessly to get drug dealers off our streets,” he said. “When someone entrusted to protect our communities violates that trust, it underscores our dedication to upholding the law.”
The ongoing investigation, which included surveillance and search warrants, revealed communications between Gibson and his supplier concerning police presence and locations. Gibson allegedly boasted about his access to police resources, including radios and the 9-1-1 dispatch system, to monitor drug enforcement activities.
Gibson faces several charges, including corrupt organizations, delivery of a controlled substance, criminal use of a communication facility, hindering apprehension or prosecution, obstructing administration of law, recklessly endangering another person, and criminal conspiracy.
The Office of Attorney General’s Drug Strike Force Section will prosecute Gibson. All charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.