43°
Authorities announced that a former member of the department who departed in 2012 designed and manufactured the derogatory coin, which featured graphic imagery of women, offensive language, and the state police logo.
Col. Woodrow W. Jones III, the Superintendent of the Maryland State Police said that the investigation was conducted by the Maryland State Police Internal Affairs Division.
The former trooper's name has not been released.
“Although it has been determined a current member of the Maryland State Police was not involved in the manufacture of this item, I am still disgusted to know that anyone who wore this uniform would create something that demeans others and disregards our core values and all this Department stands for,” Jones said.
According to reports, the coins were in response to alleged racial discrimination allegations that have been levied against state police in recent years.
“This action has disrupted our efforts to improve relationships among all our employees and with the citizens we serve,” Jones added.
“I remain committed to ensuring the fair and equitable treatment of all employees and to upholding the tradition and reputation of excellence in police services the Maryland State Police has been known for during the past century.”
The coins had been put up for sale on eBay on a listing that has since been pulled from the site.
“The actions of this former employee have reflected unfavorably on this department and undermine all the good and honorable work our troopers provide to Maryland citizens each day,” Jones said.
"I condemn his callous and careless actions and the actions of all who may consider similar disrespectful conduct somehow acceptable.”
Click here to follow Daily Voice Mechanicsville and receive free news updates.
