Police in Richmond, Virginia said they arrested a Richmond Police Officer for impersonating a police officer.
An officer with the Richmond Police Department (RPD) found himself on the wrong side of the law as he was arrested for allegedly impersonating a law enforcement officer and invading privacy.
Officer Leary Wright, 40, was arrested without incident by a fellow officer at the Richmond Police Department Headquarters on Wednesday, March 6, after he was indicted by a grand jury this week on two misdemeanor charge.
Wright faces two misdemeanor charges—impersonating a law enforcement officer and computer invasion of privacy.
According to sources close to the matter, the allegations against Wright revolve around his misrepresentation of his position and rank on an online platform. The specifics of the complaint that led to his arrest last year remain undisclosed.
The investigation into Wright’s conduct began late last year after a complaint was lodged against him.
Subsequently, Wright was placed on administrative leave with pay as per RPD regulations. However, following his arrest, he has been placed on administrative leave without pay.
Wright, an eight-year veteran of the Richmond Police Department, currently serves as a patrol officer with the Fourth Precinct.
“The RPD Office of Professional Responsibility has fully investigated this matter and has presented their findings to the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney,” said Richmond Police Chief Rick Edwards. “While we will wait for the court process to run its course, I want the community to know we take these allegations seriously. We, as an organization, continue to strive to provide the highest level of professional service by our sworn and civilian staff.”
The circumstances surrounding Wright’s alleged actions and the subsequent charges have raised new concerns about the integrity and conduct of law enforcement officers.
Authorities are urging patience as the legal process unfolds.