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A grand jury in Alabama has called for the immediate shutdown of the Hanceville Police Department after uncovering widespread corruption. Five officers, including Police Chief Jason Shane Marlin, have been indicted on multiple charges, and the spouse of one officer has also been charged.
The announcement came on February 19, 2025, from Cullman County District Attorney Champ Crocker. Investigators found serious misconduct within the department, including the mishandling of evidence and negligence that led to the death of dispatcher Christopher Michael Willingham. Willingham, who died on August 23, 2024, was found with a lethal mix of fentanyl and other drugs in his system. The grand jury blamed his death on the department’s lack of proper procedures and oversight.
The indicted officers face serious charges. Chief Marlin is accused of failing to report an ethics violation and tampering with evidence. Officers Cody Alan Kelso and Jason Scott Wilbanks face charges, including computer tampering, conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and abusing their official positions. Officer William Andrew Shelnutt is charged with tampering with evidence, while reserve officer Eric Michael Kelso and his wife, Donna Reid Kelso, are accused of illegally distributing drugs.
The grand jury described the department as a “criminal enterprise” rather than a law enforcement agency, citing a complete failure to secure and manage evidence. This has compromised key cases and put public safety at risk.
Hanceville Mayor Jim Sawyer has vowed to cooperate fully with the investigation and take immediate corrective action. Meanwhile, Cullman County Sheriff Matt Gentry stated that while his office has not yet been formally asked to take over policing duties in Hanceville, they are preparing to ensure the safety of residents.