Benton Harbor police officer pleads guilty to neglect of duty

BERRIEN COUNTY, Mich. -- An officer with the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety pleaded guilty to neglect of duty for failing to apprehend a person suspected of stealing a vehicle, according to the Berrien County Prosecutor's Office.

Reginald Gee, 36, pleaded guilty Monday to one misdemeanor count of neglect of duty.

On September 12, Bridgman Police took a report regarding a stolen 2003 Honda Element.

On September 14, officer Gee contacted dispatch and reported finding the vehicle unoccupied in the parking lot of Wings and Things on E. Main Street.

While investigating who left the vehicle in the parking lot, Bridgman police reviewed surveillance video showing the parking lot.

The Bridgman Police and Berrien County Sheriff's department investigations revealed:

• Gee came across the Honda while it was occupied.
• Gee had a conversation with the person operating the vehicle.
• While the person was still in the immediate area, Gee was informed the vehicle was stolen.

The investigation revealed Gee and the suspect knew each other, the prosecutor's office said. The person's identity and possible charges are still under investigation.

Gee had a duty to apprehend the subject who was allegedly in the possession of a stolen vehicle, the prosecutors' office said.

Gee was sentenced to fines and costs of $535.

His employment status is in administrative proceedings.