The public has been notified by the Frederick Police Department (FPD) of allegations against a Frederick Police officer in the state of Pennsylvania, which include soliciting a minor and possessing child pornography. Below is a video of FPD Chief Jason Lando speaking to people of Frederick.
According to the Frederick Police Department, these accusations come after a protracted investigation by the Pennsylvania State Police, which began after a Frederick Police Department officer alerted his command staff to potential criminal wrongdoing.FPD submitted the case to the Pennsylvania State Police, who have since taken the lead in the criminal investigation because the alleged behavior took place in Pennsylvania.
The following charges have been brought against Corporal James Dodson by the Pennsylvania State Police:
- Two counts of Solicitation of a Minor
- One count of Possession of Child Pornography
- One count of Criminal Use of a Communication Facility
The Frederick Police Command Staff secured the officer’s badge, firearm, and department vehicle, suspended his police powers, removed him of duty, and informed the appropriate external agencies after learning of the accusations.
In response, FPD also requested an internal administrative inquiry, which it completed independently in collaboration with the Montgomery County (MD) Police Department. The administrative review is still under progress. After that procedure is finished, the Frederick Police Department will provide more details as needed.
