June 10, 2016
Thom Carroll, File/PhillyVoice
A Camden County Police Department is seen in the city of Camden.
A two-year veteran of the Camden County Metro Police Department, Douglas Dickinson, is charged with two counts of making a false report and one count of simple assault.
The county prosecutor’s office reviewed criminal cases handled by Dickinson. As a result, 18 cases involving the officer will now be dismissed.
The Camden County Prosecutor's Office was notified about the alleged misconduct by the police department.
The review revealed multiple cases where Dickinson was the only officer to be called to testify about the facts of a case.
“Our office has a legal obligation to dismiss cases tainted by the possibility of police misconduct,” prosecutor Mary Eva Colalillo said.
Related story: Camden to be featured on CNN documentary 'United Shades of America'
The cases include pending matters, as well as cases which have already resulted in plea deals.
The majority of the cases facing dismissal are for drug distribution.
Other cases that will be dismissed are for resisting arrest, two weapons charges and one theft.
This investigation is ongoing.
The office has been suspended and the department said it intends to fire him.
“We've created a culture where officers hold themselves and their colleagues to the highest standard," said Chief Scott Thomson.
"The unfortunate actions of one officer were able to be identified by his peers, removed from the streets and forwarded to the prosecutor's office for a criminal investigation. I am proud of the officers who displayed this integrity and grateful to the community members who informed of us of their concerns," said the chief.
