Five officers of the Hanceville Police Department, including the police chief, have been indicted by a Cullman County grand jury, along with the spouse of one of the officers. The shocking allegations include tampering with evidence, solicitation of controlled substances, and computer tampering, leading the grand jury to recommend the department’s immediate disbandment.
Cullman District Attorney Champ Crocker and Sheriff Matt Gentry addressed the media during a press conference on Wednesday, expressing deeply concerning findings about misconduct in the small-town police force.
Charges Filed and Highlights
Jason Shane Marlin (Police Chief):
- Charges: Two counts of failure to report an ethics crime and tampering with evidence.
- Allegations suggest Marlin improperly handled evidence and neglected to report ethics violations by officers Cody Kelso and Jason Wilbanks.
Cody Alan Kelso (Officer):
- Charges: Two counts of computer tampering, misuse of office for personal gain, tampering with evidence, and solicitation of controlled substances.
- Court records show Kelso both tampered with evidence and sought steroids from Donna and Eric Kelso.
Jason Scott Wilbanks (Officer):
- Charges: Similar to Kelso; accused of soliciting steroids, tampering with computer systems, and mishandling evidence.
William Andrew Shellnutt (Officer):
- Charge: Tampering with evidence.
Eric and Donna Kelso (Civilians):
- Allegedly worked together to provide anabolic steroids to officers. Eric faces 6 charges related to drug distribution and conspiracy.
Impact on the Community
The revelations have shaken the trust of Hanceville residents, with many calling for sweeping reforms. The grand jury labeled the department as “more of a criminal organization than a law enforcement agency,” highlighting systemic issues.
District Attorney Crocker emphasized the department’s negligence, particularly pointing to the insecure evidence room — a critical issue for legal accountability.
“This evidence room was routinely accessed by unauthorized individuals,” Crocker stated, while showing security footage.
Additionally, the department has been linked to the tragic overdose death of Christopher Willingham, a 911 dispatcher. Authorities confirmed Willingham accessed the evidence room hours before his death, further compounding allegations of negligence.
Mayor and Council Respond
In an official statement, Mayor Jim Sawyer assured the public of full cooperation with authorities and audits of the department’s evidence room. “The people of Hanceville deserve full transparency… and individuals responsible will be held accountable,” the statement read.
What Happens Next?
- Sheriff’s Office Intervention: Sheriff Gentry confirmed discussions are underway for the Cullman County Sheriff’s Office to assume the Hanceville Police Department’s responsibilities.
- State Audit: Municipal Judge has called for a state audit of all compromised evidence, which could jeopardize pending cases.
- Legal Prosecution: All six individuals indicted have been released on bond, but outcomes may redefine the justice process in Hanceville.
What Does This Mean for Hanceville?
The case demonstrates the cost of failing to uphold ethical standards within law enforcement—both for public trust and community safety. Moving forward, the City Council’s decision to accept responsibility and implement lasting changes will be critical.
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