CMPD Chief to Decide Fate of Officers in Alleged Racist Chat Probe

Charlotte-Mecklenburg police are investigating a group chat containing alleged racist slurs and derogatory comments about Black residents, reportedly including a competition over who could stop the most Black drivers and messages about using force. The messages surfaced during a North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation examination of former officer Seth Elliott’s alleged misuse of Flock license-plate-reader technology to help a friend involved in a drug investigation; Elliott faces criminal charges alleging he illegally accessed a government computer for non-law-enforcement purposes. Reports differ on the number and status of officers: some say six were cited for termination, while WBTV reports more than half a dozen were recommended for termination or resigned. Officers reportedly appeared before an internal review board, but termination decisions rest with Chief Estella Patterson, and appeals may be possible. CMPD said it would not tolerate conduct that undermines its values or public trust and emphasized accountability and ethical standards.