Man accused of using systems to search ex-wife
SPECIAL TO THE LEADER
GUNTERSVILLE — An Albertville police officer faces charges of misusing two law enforcement databases, Marshall County District Attorney Jennifer Bray announced Saturday.
“Earlier this week, at the request of the Albertville Police Department, the Marshall County district attorney’s office conducted an independent investigation into former APD Officer Jeremy Hannah’s alleged misuse of law enforcement databases,” Bray said in a news release.
The Albertville Police Department placed Hannah on administrative leave with pay while the investigation was conducted.
The investigation revealed Hannah improperly accessed law enforcement databases, Bray said. “Most significantly, investigators determined he accessed the Alabama Criminal Justice Information System Law Enforcement Tactical System and conducted searches of his ex-spouse and one of her close family members on multiple occasions without any legitimate law enforcement or public safety purpose.”
The findings of the investigation were immediately provided to APD and the department promptly began terminating Hannah’s employment.
As a result of the investigation, Hannah was arrested Friday and charged with two offenses arising from his unauthorized use of ACJIS/LETS. One count is a violation of the Alabama Digital Crimes Act, a Class B felony. He was also charged under Title 41 of the Alabama Code for the unauthorized use of the system, an unclassified offense punishable by up to five years in prison.
Bray said this case will be presented to a Marshall County Grand Jury, where additional charges are possible. Hannah is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
“I want to commend Marshall County District Attorney’s Office Assistant Chief Investigator Jimmy Miller and Commander Justin Dake for their diligent and professional work throughout this investigation,” Bray said. “I also appreciate the cooperation and assistance provided by APD and ALEA.
“The actions of one officer should never define the many honorable men and women who wear the badge in Marshall County. Every day, law enforcement officers throughout our county faithfully serve with integrity and professionalism. The misconduct uncovered in this investigation is an unfortunate exception, not the rule.
“The public entrusts law enforcement officers with access to sensitive information solely to protect the public and enforce the law. Misusing that access for personal reasons is a serious breach of the public’s trust, and my office will not tolerate it,” Bray said.
“The strongest support we can provide to the overwhelming majority of honorable officers is to hold accountable those who abuse the authority entrusted to them,” she continued. “Doing so protects the integrity of the badge and preserves public confidence. I hope this sends a clear message that misuse of law enforcement databases will be thoroughly investigated and, where appropriate, prosecuted. The citizens of Marshall County expect nothing less.”
