Police Dispatcher Accused Of Taking Bribes From Tow Truck Drivers
By Tony Hanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- A Philadelphia police civilian dispatcher has been indicted on charges she took bribes to steer car towing work to those who allegedly paid the bribes.
The police department has a dispatch system that was designed to rein in rogue tow truckers and "wreck chasers."
The indictment alleges that dispatcher Dorian Parsley took bribes, cash payments of $100 to $200 a week each, from a couple of tow truck drivers and an auto body company owner.
"According to the indictment, Ms. Parsley circumvented the rotational tow program by essentially texting, via her personal cell phone, locations where accidents or abandoned car or wherever a tow truck was needed," federal prosecutor Jennifer Chun Barry explained.
Police say Parsley is being suspended with intent to dismiss.
Three others are also facing charges.
Attorneys for Parsley and other defendants say they plan to plead not guilty.
Parsley was a 16-year veteran dispatcher.
