Drug-addicted Philly ex-cop gets probation for theft

A former Philadelphia police officer who stole a debit card from a prisoner was sentenced by a federal judge to three years probation today.

Charles Jacoby III, 31, worked as a patrol officer and cell block attendant in the 22nd police district. Jacoby, of Burholme in the far Northeast, was supposed to safeguard personal items taken from those he recently arrested or prisoners he guarded.

Instead, prosecutors said the 10-year veteran stole their debit and credit cards and used them to buy things for himself.

At a sentencing today, U.S. District Judge Joel H. Slomsky ordered Jacoby to serve the first nine months of his three year probation under house arrest with electronic monitoring and fined him $1,000.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Brenner said Jacoby targeted individuals who appeared to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs when he was patrolling the streets.

When he was working the cell block, Brenner said Jacoby targeted inmates who he thought were acting "rowdy."

Brenner likened the ex-cop to a "pickpocket" whose behavior was "startling and stunning."

The prosecutor asked Slomsky to draw a "bright line" to send a message to other cops who might be considering criminal misdeeds. Seeking a sentence of 18 to 24 months - well above the recommended guideline sentence of zero to six months, Brenner called Jacoby's crime "startling and stunning."

Brenner said the sentencing guidelines didn't account for the fact Jacoby's crimes had undermined public confidence in the integrity of the Philadelphia Police Department.

But Slomsky said the guidelines took account of Jacoby's abuse of the public trust and that there were mitigating circumstances. Jacoby has a history of alcohol abuse and is addicted to prescription painkillers.

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Drug-addicted Philly ex-cop gets probation for theft