Nearly half of NC town’s police force resigned or on leave after “corruption” uncovered
The Surry County DA and NC State Bureau of Investigation received anonymous tips that led to the Police Chief’s resignation in Pilot Mountain, officials say
At a press conference held on November 16, town officials detailed how several members of the Pilot Mountain Police Department engaged in extensive misconduct and committed acts of fraud involving off-duty employment, since at least 2019.
Town officials shared the preliminary findings of an internal investigation into the town’s police department, which uncovered evidence of pervasive misconduct and corruption. As part of the preliminary investigation, the town announced personnel actions against four members of the local police department, including Chief Robbie Jackson, who was involved in "corruption and clear misconduct," said Mayor Evan Cockerham.
“The Town of Pilot Mountain demands that its leaders uphold their oath to be good stewards, act ethically, and serve the community. We found substantial evidence that our now-former police chief engaged in behavior that constitutes a failure of leadership and that failed to uphold his oath to protect and serve,” said Michael Boaz, Town Manager of Pilot Mountain. “We have accepted his resignation effective immediately.”
Pilot Mountain officials shared the preliminary findings of its internal affairs investigation and a timeline of misconduct that extended for multiple years.
“Our investigators uncovered a yearslong scheme to fraudulently financially benefit from off-duty employment opportunities involving community organizations and well-known community events. This scheme was led by Chief of Police Robbie Jackson and members of his staff,” said Ian Redman, Acting Public Information Officer, Pilot Mountain.
As part of the announcement, the town reiterated its commitment to rebuilding trust and providing transparency and accountability.
“Our citizens deserve transparency and accountability, especially as we work to rebuild trust between our police department and the community,” said Cockerham. “While this is an active investigation, we are committed to transparency. Wherever appropriate, we will share information with the media, our community, and the public.”
The Town of Pilot Mountain employs 10 full-time and a number of part-time police officers. The personnel actions announced today involve four members. The department usually has 11 employees, per the town manager.
“Today, we are announcing a number of personnel actions with members of our police department stemming from the results of our preliminary investigations. These disciplinary actions allow us to finish our investigative process while also starting the process to rebuild the relationship between our police and the community,” said Boaz.
Former Chief and part-time officer Darryl Bottoms has been suspended without pay and the Town of Pilot Mountain has initiated the termination process, effective immediately. Sergeant Jason Chrismon and Officer Ryan Blizzard have been placed on administrative leave with pay.
“This is difficult news to share, and it is understandable that we have shaken the trust of our community. However, our police department is committed to protecting and serving Pilot Mountain’s citizens, businesses and visitors,” said Adrian Tillotson, Interim Police Chief for Pilot Mountain. “To ensure we continue providing the level of service that our community expects, we have partnered with the Surry County Sheriff’s Office to support law enforcement activities in Pilot Mountain.”
At this time, the town’s internal investigation is ongoing. Further details will be provided when it is available at the conclusion of the town’s investigation.
To recap:
Police Chief Robbie Jackson resigned, in lieu of termination, effective Nov. 14.
Former Chief Darryl Bottoms also offered a resignation.
Sgt. Jason Chrismon and Officer Ryan Blizzard are on leave with pay
(Note: The department usually has 11 employees, per town manager.)
The town manager was approached by members of the SBI and questioned about allegations with the police department; a tip was made to the DA's office which led to the investigation.
Situational awareness: Pilot Mountain is a town in Surry County, NC. The population was 1,443 at the 2020 census. It is named for the nearby landmark of Pilot Mountain, a distinctive geological formation and tourist attraction.
The investigation is ongoing.
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