Former Police Officer Sworn In Despite Misconduct Allegations

A former Salisbury police officer, James Hampton, who has been accused of misusing a police dog, has recently been sworn in as a deputy for the Union County Sheriff’s Office, according to WSOC-TV 9.

Footage has surfaced showing Hampton allegedly lifting the dog, Zulu, by its collar before striking it. Reports indicate that he also slammed the dog into a vehicle, leading to the video’s viral spread. Hampton resigned from the Salisbury Police Department in 2021 following these incidents, which were noted as violations of the department’s policies.

Lauren Bond, executive director of the National Police Accountability Project, expressed serious concern over Hampton’s new position. She highlighted the troubling aspects of his past, especially given his resignation to evade the consequences of his actions. “This raises significant doubts about his accountability and adherence to regulations,” Bond stated.

Local residents have voiced their apprehensions regarding Hampton’s hiring, with one individual, Angel Thompson, mentioning that it raises many questions about the standards upheld in the hiring process. “If they’re hiring someone like that, what other issues are being overlooked?” she said, emphasizing the stress this situation causes the community.

Following the video’s release, a petition gathered 93,000 signatures advocating for Hampton’s dismissal, receiving support from organizations like PETA.

Hampton was sworn in as a deputy in July. The city of Salisbury confirmed that Zulu, the dog involved in the incident, has since retired and returned to a training facility. Despite the surrounding controversy, the Union County Sheriff’s Office has defended Hampton’s employment, claiming confidence in his ability to provide professional services to residents. Notably, Hampton has not faced any criminal charges related to the incident involving Zulu.