Area Drug Task Force Investigation
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The 24th Judicial Drug Task Force serves Benton, Carroll, Henry, Hardin and Decatur counties but now officials with the task force may find themselves on the other side of the law after accusations the department has misused taxpayer money among other things. “I mean it does not make me feel good that it was done wrong, but it is a good thing for the community,” said Frank Beecham. Beecham and his family moved to Henry a couple years ago after they said they could not take the crime in their hometown of Chicago anymore. “There was a lot of violence, a lot of drugs,” said Beecham. So when the headquarters for the 24th Judicial Drug Task Force moved in down the street, the Beechams knew they were here to stay. “I mean if it slows down any activity, to me I am all for it,” Beecham said. However, some fear corruption has taken over the department. TBI Special Agent in Charge John Mehr did confirm District Attorney Hansel McCadam’s office requested that his agents assist the state comptroller’s office in investigating the task force. We asked to talk with the Task Force Director Steve Lee, but were told the assistant director, Tim Cunningham is currently in charge and he had nothing to say to the media. Our calls to District Attorney Hansel McCadams were not returned.
