Thursday, January 07, 2010

Former Officer Shawn Turner Arrested for Disorderly Conduct

A former Royalton police officer is in the Franklin County jail Thursday night. Shawn Turner was arrested on Wednesday and charged with official and disorderly conduct.

Turner made his first appearance in Franklin County court Thursday morning. But, it's not the first time News 3 has been in contact with Turner. In fact, just last month he sent News 3 several documents outlining his complaints against his former employer the Royalton Police Department. And these felony charges apparently stem from those issues.

Until recently, Shawn Turner was a lieutenant with the Royalton Police Department. He'd been in local law enforcement for years, including stints with Sesser and Johnston City. But, on Monday, the Royalton City Council fired him. Two days later- he was arrested.

"He's presumed innocent until proven guilty."

State police investigator John Lewis says, Turner came to ISP with claims against the Royalton Police Department and Chief- including allegations the Chief beat a civilian with a flashlight back in July. Investigating those allegations lead state police to question Turner...

"This investigation lasted a while, and the Franklin County State's Attorney evidently thought we had enough evidence to obtain an arrest warrant."

Turner is accused of forwarding allegations against the Chief while knowing there was not reasonable ground for the claims. He's also charged with breaking into a locked evidence room at the Royalton Police Department. In the letter given to News 3 by Turner, he states he did, in fact, break into that locker. But, Lewis, will not confirm or deny many of the details...

"There is very little we can say, or the state's attorney can say, because we don't want to prejudice his case."

Before Turner was fired, he was on a 45 day suspension from the department. Royalton's Police Chief, who did not want to talk to us on camera, says the reasons for Turner's suspension and termination will eventually come to light. And, as for the allegations made by Turner, the Chief says they're totally untrue.

What will happen if Turner is convicted of these charges?

It's very unlikely he'll have much of a law enforcement career with an arrest record. Law enforcement officials in the area confirm Turner has put in applications at other police departments. Those departments are aware of his arrest.

Turner will appear in Franklin County court again in early February. He is currently being held on $20,000 bail.

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