Indianapolis Star
WESTFIELD, Ind. — A Westfield Police officer accused of stopping Hispanic motorists and accepting cash in lieu of a traffic ticket or jail was arrested Tuesday night on multiple counts of armed robbery.
Hamilton County Sheriff Doug Carter said Lt. Scott Fross, a 10-year veteran of the Westfield Police Department, took money from multiple victims who live in the Westfield area.
Deputies served a search warrant about 11 p.m. Tuesday on Fross’ home, person, police vehicle and police equipment. Fross was held on multiple counts of armed robbery, a Class B felony, in the Hamilton County Jail. His bond was set at $125,000.
The sheriff scheduled a news conference this morning to discuss the investigation, which was conducted by his office and the Westfield Police Department.
Town Board President Andy Cook responded to news of the arrest, saying the allegations have “compromised the integrity” of the Westfield Police Department.
Cook said Ross has been suspended without pay.
In a statement released by the town, Cook said:
“Since this situation has been brought to our attention, the Westfield Police Department immediately engaged the Hamilton County Sherriff’s Office, and both organizations have worked to ensure a prompt joint response to these allegations.
“First of all, we sincerely apologize to the affected parties involved in this case. Lt. Fross has allegedly compromised the integrity of our law enforcement personnel and this behavior will not be tolerated, as shown by our swift actions in this situation.
“Westfield will continue to work in conjunction with the Hamilton County Sherriff’s Office to ensure that this investigation is as comprehensive and as thorough as possible.”
Copyright 2007 Indianapolis Star