HARRISBURG, PA – A Harrisburg Police Corporal is facing federal charges after allegedly pilfering cash from an evidence locker. Sean Cornick, 44, of Harrisburg, is accused of stealing money believed to be seized during a drug investigation, a betrayal of public trust that’s landed him in the crosshairs of federal investigators.
According to a criminal complaint unsealed today, Cornick was allegedly caught on video removing currency from the evidence locker. A subsequent inventory confirmed that funds were, in fact, missing. The brazen act sparked an internal investigation by the Harrisburg Bureau of Police, which quickly escalated with the involvement of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police.
“It is always a sad day when fellow law enforcement officers are alleged to have broken the laws they have sworn to uphold,” stated United States Attorney Bruce D. Brandler. “Our office takes these matters very seriously and we greatly appreciate the assistance and cooperation of the Harrisburg Police Department and Pennsylvania State Police in conducting this investigation.” Assistant United States Attorney Eric Pfisterer, Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division, is leading the prosecution.
Cornick appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Susan E. Schwab yesterday and was released under strict conditions. He’s required to post a $10,000 signature bond, remain within the Middle District of Pennsylvania, surrender his passport, avoid contact with potential witnesses, and refrain from possessing any firearms. The charges against him include theft of federal funds and removal of property to prevent seizure.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Michael T. Harpster minced no words: “When an officer who took an oath to protect and serve crosses the line, as alleged here, it’s an affront to all those in law enforcement who carry out their sworn duties with integrity. Public corruption is insidious, corroding people’s faith in the system.” Pennsylvania State Police Major David E. Relph echoed those sentiments, emphasizing the importance of thorough investigations to maintain public confidence.
Cornick is presumed innocent until proven guilty. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine for removal of property to prevent seizure, and up to one year imprisonment for theft of federal funds under $1,000. However, sentencing guidelines dictate that the judge will consider a range of factors before imposing a penalty. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds. # # #
Related Federal Cases
- Ex-Cop Joseph Lynn Pleads Guilty to Stealing Evidence Cash · Pennsylvania
- Ex-Cop Tyson Baker Jailed for Stealing $5K in Drug Busts · Pennsylvania
- Ex-Narcotics Agent Riley Charged in $1.77M Drug Cash Heist · Pennsylvania
- Harrisburg Cop Charged in $ Theft · Pennsylvania
- Raymond Ventrone Jailed for Stealing $1.5M from Boilermakers Union · Illinois
Key Facts
- State: Pennsylvania
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: Official Source ↗
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