Maricopa County sheriff's deputy accused of stealing from dead person

MCSO's Professional Standards Bureau took over the matter for further investigation. Investigators reviewed the evidence and body-camera footage, officials said.

Enter Article DATE HERE

A Maricopa County sheriff's deputy has been arrested on suspicion of stealing money from a dead person's home after he responded to a call there, the Sheriff's Office said late Tuesday.

Gregory Todd Johnson, 39, was arrested and booked on charges of theft and burglary in connection with a theft that took place on Oct. 28 at a home in the Mesa area, officials said.

Johnson had responded to a call at the home about a dead body, the Sheriff's Office said.

During the death investigation, MCSO detectives received information and uncovered evidence that indicated Johnson may have stolen cash belonging to the person who died, the Sheriff's Office said.

MCSO's Professional Standards Bureau took over the matter for further investigation. Investigators reviewed the evidence and body-camera footage, officials said.

In an interview with investigators, Johnson admitted to the theft, the Sheriff's Office said.

"I will not tolerate criminal behavior of any kind in this organization," said Sheriff Paul Penzone in a prepared statement. "Our deputies are expected to reflect the highest standards and ethics. This instance is by no means a reflection on the other men and women of this organization who work every day to protect the community with honesty and integrity."

Johnson was booked into the Fourth Avenue Jail in Phoenix on Tuesday.

The Sheriff's Office says it has begun the administrative process to fire Johnson.

MCSO officials said the agency will seek further charges against Johnson if additional information or evidence of illegal activity surfaces.