Former Turkey Creek asst. police chief charged with malfeasance, drug possession

Former Turkey Creek Asst. Police Chief Christopher Lemaire is under investigation for his behavior during traffic stops, according to a release from the police department

TURKEY CREEK, La. (KLFY) -- The former assistant chief of police in Turkey Creek was arrested in August and faces malfeasance charges, according to the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office

Christopher Lemaire, 38, of Erath, faces 10 charges of malfeasance in office and one count of possession of Schedule II narcotics. His bond was set at $15,000. Sheriff Charles Guillory said the investigation is ongoing, and more charges could be filed. Lemaire is currently employed with the Lecompte Police Department.

Guillory said that from February through July of this year, Lemaire allegedly made multiple controversial traffic stops and also "conduct[ed] narcotics investigations outside of his jurisdiction."

Turkey Creek Police Chief Steven Ardoin said his department fielded a number of complaints over Lemaire's behavior, and reviews of Lemaire's body cameras showed behavior "...that did not meet Turkey Creek Police Department standards." Lemaire was asked to resign on July 11 of this year, and he did so the next day. Ardoin said he then turned over the investigation to the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office.

Guillory said Lemaire was taken into custody by the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office while on duty for Lecompte Police. He has since been extradited to the Evangeline Parish Jail.

Ardoin said police officers are not above the law and will be held accountable for their actions.

“Our department is continuously striving to make Turkey Creek a safer place for our community and as always I would like to thank the public for their continued support and trust," said the chief. "Please report all suspicious activity.”