NBC: Another SDPD Cop Under Investigation

Another San Diego police officer is under internal investigation for alleged misconduct, according to a report Wednesday from our media partner, NBC San Diego.

Here’s an excerpt from the report:

Independent, reliable sources tell us the investigation involves an officer finding what they describe as “suggestive” pictures on the cell phone of a woman who was in custody — and sending them to himself.

Our sources say the officer in question is assigned to the Northwestern Division station in Carmel Valley. He’s a three-year veteran of the force, according to a police document.

And the complaint by the woman whose phone he allegedly used to send himself the “suggestive” photos was filed on the department’s confidential hotline for reporting cases of police misconduct.

The department told NBC it would not confirm or deny the investigation.

Before the report, police acknowledged at least 11 officers have been under internal or criminal investigation since October. The allegations include drunken driving, domestic violence, assault, excessive force, sexual assault and on-duty rape. Five have been charged in court.

Researchers and police have cited numerous factors behind the recent rise in misconduct allegations, including more stress, reduced supervision, fewer experienced officers and the loss of a covert internal unit aimed at investigating police misconduct.

Police Chief Bill Lansdowne has publicly apologized for the behavior of his officers and announced plans to address it internally. Among the changes, the chief plans to boost an internal oversight unit, review procedures and pay greater attention to officers’ wellbeing. It’s already added a confidential complaint hotline.

To read NBC’s full report, click here. To read more of our coverage on the recent allegations, click here.

Please contact Keegan Kyle directly at keegan.kyle@voiceofsandiego.org or 619.550.5668 and follow him on Twitter: twitter.com/keegankyle.