Dyersburg investigator indicted on theft charges
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OBION COUNTY, Tenn. — A West Tennessee police investigator could lose her job after a grand jury indicted her Wednesday on theft charges, according to police. Dyersburg police officer Cara Johnson-Peckenpaugh was arrested in February. She was accused of identity theft involving an Obion County couple and stealing $456.10 from their bank account to pay her utility bill. A grand jury in Obion County indicted Peckenpaugh Wednesday on a Class D felony identity theft charge and a Class A misdemeanor theft charge. “I would be hurt and mad at the same time,” resident Jamie Benthal said “Probably more mad than hurt, especially by a police officer.” Local law enforcement said they do not want citizens to distrust law enforcement based on the actions of one officer. “Police officers make mistakes. They’re human,” Chief Deputy Kent Treece said. “When they make mistakes, they have consequences like anyone else.” Dyersburg police said part of those consequences could be Peckenpaugh’s position with the department. The chief said they are reviewing actions regarding the 12-year veteran’s employment. Obion County deputies said Peckenpaugh will appear for arraignment Tuesday morning in Obion County Circuit Court.
