JACKSON — A former police chief in Mississippi has been sentenced to five years in federal prison for conspiring to demand money and property from people in exchange for dropping criminal charges.
Former Mendenhall Police Chief Donald “Bruce” Barlow pleaded guilty in to one count in federal court in January. Barlow, 50, had been charged with 17 counts, including witness intimidation.
He also was sentenced Tuesday to three years’ supervised release. Prosecutors say restitution will be determined at a July 10 hearing.
Prosecutors say Barlow sometimes made people sign over their vehicles in exchange for him dropping charges and also demanded cash payments, in one case $4,500.
Prosecutors say Barlow tried to cover up his dealings when he learned of the federal investigation.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 36 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.