Deputy David Jacobs Charged with Taking Money from Man he Arrested

CHICKASHA

A former Grady County sheriff's deputy has been charged with two felony counts alleging he took money from a man he arrested.

Former Deputy David Jacobs was arraigned Thursday on charges of embezzlement by a police officer and falsifying an official record. Bond was set at $8,000.

An Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation affidavit filed in the case indicates a jail security video captured Jacobs counting out money seized from the suspect and putting it in an envelope.

According to the affidavit, Jacobs told investigators he was holding $1,800 as evidence but forgot to book the money and then lost it on his way home. He told investigators he did not "intentionally steal or take any money," the affidavit states.

The affidavit indicates an envelope containing $2,000 was later found in his vehicle.

Sheriff Art Kell fired Jacobs in early March after the allegations first surfaced.

A telephone message left Friday with Jacobs' attorney, John Stuart, was not immediately returned.

Jacobs is scheduled to appear in court June 17 for a preliminary hearing conference.

"I'm tired of having to prosecute cops," said Grady County District Attorney Bret Burns. "Every time you do it affects the whole system.

"We've had to dismiss or plea bargain 20 to 30 cases Jacobs was working on because his credibility has been called into question."

Burns said he will seek prison time for Jacobs.

"I think we should hold on-duty police officers to a a higher standard," Burns said.