WPD: Narcotics unit violated department procedures

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — An internal review by Wilmington Police has found violations of procedures by the Narcotics Enforcement Unit.

WPD this morning issued a statement about the investigation in response to requests from media outlets including WWAY NewsChannel 3.

The department says the investigation pertained to possible violations of policy and procedure during an undercover operation conducted several months ago targeting drugs and prostitution.

WPD says a routine internal audit of funds used in the undercover operation resulted in a formal review by the Professional Standards unit. The internal review revealed violations of department guidelines for documenting cash used in the undercover operation, and a violation of proper procedures for the acceptable use of alcohol in undercover operations.

The police department says it found no violations of the law.

“We’re constantly reviewing our operations to insure (sic) that we’re performing with integrity, in accordance with the law and established best practices,” Chief Ralph Evangelous said in a statement. “We have a great group of officers, but sometimes they make mistakes. When that happens, we take appropriate action.”

The police department would not say if any officers were disciplined as a result of the investigation.