Baldwin County deputy removed from FBI task force following mishandling of evidence; Cases could be dismissed
July 5th, 2024
The Baldwin County Sheriff's Office has removed a deputy from an FBI task force after learning he may have mishandled evidence from federal cases.
The FBI's Safe Street Task Force coordinates with local law enforcement to investigate federal cases, including firearms, drugs and currency. A member from the local agency is chosen to serve on the task force and collect evidence.
The former task force member from the Baldwin County Sheriff's Office is accused of storing evidence from these cases at his home. According to Sheriff Huey "Hoss" Mack, several cases could be impacted, but the total number is unknown at this time.
"The effect of the cases will be determined by the U.S. Attorney's office, which is still reviewing the cases on a case-by-case basis," Mack said.
When the sheriff learned about the allegations, he directed the department's narcotics investigators to investigate.
At least one of those cases is out of Gulf Shores.
"We are cooperating in the investigation and so far know that at least one of our cases has been impacted," said Gulf Shores investigator Lt. Nate Harris. "GSPD has also spoken with the Baldwin County District Attorney's Office regarding that case."
Mack told 1819 News that he had spoken to other agencies to inform them of possible issues. The mishandling of evidence could result in dismissal in some cases.
Mack said the deputy serving on the task force was replaced by another deputy.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.