MORRISTOWN (WATE) — A special investigation has found that former Morristown police sergeant, Michael Hurt, failed to turn over at least $6,000 in cash he collected while working for the police department.
According to the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office, Hurt was responsible for returning seized vehicles to the owners and lienholders, as well as collecting the storage and towing fees owners were required to pay the department.
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During the investigation, Hurt turned over $5,500 in cash. He claimed the money had been in his police vehicle for as long as 35 days. The remaining $500 was not found in the vehicle.
Investigators say Hurt made false entries in police department records in an attempt to conceal his activities. On July 1, Michael Hurt was indicted by the Hamblen County Grand Jury on two counts of theft over $1,000, one count of theft under $500, and one count of official misconduct.
“I find it particularly troublesome when an officer of the law chooses to engage is dishonest activity,” said Comptroller Justin P. Wilson. “It is important that police departments and other government entities understand the risks associated with handling cash in day-to-day operations.
