(PUEBLO, Colo.) — A former Pueblo Police Department (PPD) officer has resigned after he was arrested by the FBI and accused of felony Sexual Exploitation of a Child.
On Thursday, Jan. 30, PPD was notified that former Officer Gerardo Mejia was arrested by the FBI, in partnership with the Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD), and faces a felony charge of Sexual Exploitation of a Child: Posess-Distribute.
Upon his arrest, PPD said the department launched an internal affairs investigation and Mejia was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. This action is in line with the due process procedures of the City of Pueblo regarding alleged employee misconduct.
Mejia, who was an officer with the department for two years, resigned while under investigation on Thursday, the day of his arrest.
“I want to emphasize that no one is above the law. Our department has taken swift action to address this behavior, which represents a significant violation of trust and moral standards. Mejia’s alleged actions are solely his own and do not reflect or represent the values, standards, or integrity of the men and women of the Pueblo Police Department. We understand as law enforcement officials that it is essential that we operate with the highest levels of integrity to maintain the trust of the community we serve. Any actions that undermine our oath will not be tolerated. We will collaborate with the FBI and any necessary agencies to ensure these actions are punished to the fullest extent of the law.”
Pueblo Police Department Chief Chris Noeller
According to PPD, the case will be prosecuted by the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s Office.
