SBI investigating mishandled evidence at WPD

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A State Bureau of Investigation spokeswoman said officials have been asked to investigate an issue at the Wilmington Police Department.

SBI spokeswoman Teresa West said Police Chief Ralph Evangelous and District Attorney Ben David asked the department to investigate mishandled evidence. A WPD spokeswoman said evidence was not properly logged by a civilian employee. There’s no word what cases were affected. District Attorney Ben David says issued include misplaced fingerprint evidence.

“It is imperative that we continue to inspect and police ourselves,” said Evangelous. “In an effort to maintain the public trust, I believe that using a third party to conduct these investigations is essential.”

WPD said an internal investigation is also underway and there have been no personnel action taken at this time.

WWAY has requested comment from David.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The SBI originally said the case involved missing evidence, not mishandled evidence.