MOBILE, Ala. — A Prichard police officer has been arrested on federal charges alleging he abused his position as a law enforcement officer to protect criminals, extort money and violate the constitutional rights of citizens.
According to a federal criminal complaint, Emmanuel Naman Dotch II, an officer with the Prichard Police Department, faces multiple charges including civil rights violations, conspiracy, bribery, evidence tampering and extortion.
Federal authorities allege Dotch used his position as a police officer to cover up crimes and conceal evidence for violent offenders in an effort to help them avoid prosecution.
The complaint further alleges that Dotch conspired with other members of the Prichard Police Department to conduct unlawful traffic stops and detentions, depriving individuals of rights protected by the U.S. Constitution and federal law.
Investigators also allege that Dotch extorted individuals by accepting bribes in exchange for allowing them to avoid arrest.
According to court documents, Dotch is additionally accused of agreeing to accept corrupt payments in exchange for performing illegal acts while acting under color of law, including the transportation of bulk quantities of marijuana.
Federal prosecutors have not released additional details regarding the alleged conspiracy or the identities of any other individuals involved.
The case remains in its early stages, and authorities emphasized that a criminal complaint contains allegations that have not yet been proven in court.
As with all criminal defendants, Dotch is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation remains ongoing.