Restructuring Moves Prompt LCSO Embezzlement Allegations

At least one employee of the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office is under investigation for embezzlement by LCSO’s internal affairs unit as well as the Virginia State Police.

No charges have been filed in the case, but one employee, who has not been identified, was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation, according to law enforcement reports.

A spokeswoman for the Virginia State Police confirmed that Sheriff Mike Chapman initiated the investigation.

“The investigation, which began in mid-October, remains ongoing,” said VSP spokeswoman Corinne Geller. “No arrests or charges have been made at this time.”

Information released by the sheriff’s office said changes within the department led to the discovery of the alleged crime.

“The embezzlement allegations were uncovered immediately after Sheriff Chapman restructured units within the Criminal Investigations and Patrol Divisions,” according to an LCSO statement released Monday. “As soon as Sheriff Chapman was notified of the potential criminal activity, he contacted the Virginia State Police and requested that an independent investigation be conducted.”

The LCSO statement indicated that further information about the case would come from VSP.
According to a report from The Washington Post, the suspect appears to have working in asset forfeiture.