Video: Police Corporal’s Suspension Affirmed

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) — Columbus police Cpl. Eric Lewis’ 20-day suspension is upheld by the three-member Columbus civil service commission.

The unanimous decision came Wednesday afternoon after more than three hours of testimony.

Lewis was suspended for 20 working days in January for failing to act on a drug case for 18 months and then asking for the evidence to be destroyed.

Chief Tony Carleton had recommended a 30-day suspension. The city council reduced it to 20 days, which amounts to almost two calendar months based on police work schedules.

Lewis’ trouble began last summer when the department noticed some discrepancies in the department’s drug fund.

A state investigation revealed no criminal acts but put Lewis’ work under the microscope. He remained on the job pending his appeal.

Lewis can appeal the commission’s decision to circuit court within 10 days.