CMPD lieutenant arrested, charged with financial card fraud

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — A Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police lieutenant has been arrested and charged with financial-related crimes.

Lt. Warith Muhammad was arrested after turning himself in around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, CMPD said. He is charged with felony ‘Financial Transaction Card Fraud’ and felony ‘Conspiracy to Commit Financial Transaction Card Fraud.’

CMPD officer charged with embezzlement after allegedly stealing from arrestee

CMPD investigators said that the crimes happened outside of work and did not involve the functions of his job. Internal Affairs is conducting a parallel investigation.

Lt. Muhammad is currently on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of the internal investigation, CMPD said. Muhammad was hired on Oct. 18, 2010.

CMPD Chief Jennings released the following statement on Wednesday:

“The arrest of our own lieutenant is a devastating blow to the trust we’ve worked tirelessly to build with this community. We hold ourselves to an uncompromising standard of integrity, and any violation is a betrayal of that sacred oath.

But let me be absolutely clear: the CMPD has zero tolerance for misconduct, regardless of rank or tenure. The decisive action taken by investigators sends a powerful message – no badge is a shield for illegal behavior.

The law applies equally to every citizen, and that includes those who wear our uniform. This incident is a painful reminder that we are all fallible, but it also demonstrates our unwavering commitment to accountability. We will investigate this matter thoroughly and ensure that justice is served. The people we are sworn to protect deserve nothing less.”

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