A Waukegan police officer has been charged with five counts of official misconduct for misusing law enforcement databases, police and Lake County prosecutors said Tuesday.
Officer Oscar Magpali misused the databases, including license plate readers, authorities said. The 11-year department employee was placed on administrative leave after initial allegations surfaced, police said.
A review “identified numerous searches of vehicles registered to Waukegan Police Department employees and to individuals associated with those employees. Based on these findings, the department initiated separate criminal and administrative investigations,” police said in a news release.
Waukegan police said they are conducting an office-wide audit to see whether additional abuses of databases have occurred.
“The Waukegan Police Department holds its officers to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability,” Chief Elias Agalianos said. “When allegations of misconduct arise, we are responsible for investigating them thoroughly and impartially, regardless of who is involved. The integrity of our department and the community’s trust is paramount.”
“Throughout Lake County, there are hundreds of outstanding police officers who perform their duties ethically and safely,” Lake County State’s Attorney Eric Rinehart said. “We trust law enforcement professionals with powerful investigative tools which greatly promote public safety and help us solve the most serious cases. But no one should abuse that trust.”
Magpali has a Nov. 3 court date on the Class 3 felony charges.
More Top Picks Best Walking Boots For Broken Ankle