Police: Officer took money from Arkansas driver

LAKE PROVIDENCE, La. —A 51-year-old Lake Providence police officer is free on bond following his arrest for allegedly taking money in lieu of issuing a speeding ticket to an Arkansas motorist.

Louisiana State Police investigators Monday arrested Officer Clint Reed on one count of malfeasance in office. He was released from the Riverbend Detention Center on $5,000 bond. It was not immediately known whether Reed has an attorney.

The arrest was the result of a joint inquiry by state police, the East Carroll Parish Sheriff's Office and Lake Providence Police Department.

An Arkansas resident told investigators he was traveling Sunday through Lake Providence and Reed stopped him for speeding. The motorist says Reed requested $50 in lieu of issuing a citation and he paid it.

State police say Reed admitted, during questioning, to taking the money. If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.

Reed, of Lake Providence, has been suspended pending completion of the investigation, Police Chief Aaron Threats said. Reed has been with the force for about two years, the chief said.

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