COLUMBUS, Ohio — A federal grand jury indicted a Columbus police officer for allegedly tampering with records related to criminal investigations, according to United States Attorney Kenneth Parker.
Nicholas Duty, 35, of Commercial Point, was charged with two counts of destroying or altering records related to a criminal investigation.
According to the indictment, Duty is accused of destroying, altering or falsifying records by purposefully deactivating or removing his police body camera on two occasions.
Duty pleaded not guilty on Friday.
On Oct. 31, 2023, and March 22, 2024, federal investigators say Duty deactivated or removed his body camera during interactions with two women, including during a sexual encounter.
During the alleged incidents, the officer was on duty in a marked police vehicle wearing an official police uniform and assigned a body camera. He was required to comply with Columbus Division of Police policies for wearing the camera, according to investigators.
The indictment also alleges that Duty intended to impede, obstruct or influence a federal investigation.
Duty was arrested Friday morning and is scheduled to appear in federal court Friday afternoon.
“They are accusations right now and I have had other police officers alleged of these types of situations. So, once you get to detailed information and discovery process, it’s accusations at this point and time,” said Mark Collins, Duty's attorney.
Knowingly altering records to obstruct a federal investigation is a crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert released a statement following Duty's arrest and indictment.
"The Columbus Division of Police holds itself to the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Any violations of law, or actions inconsistent with our Core Values will be met with swift and appropriate disciplinary measures, including criminal charges. Our obligation is not only to uphold the law but also to earn and maintain the trust of the communities we serve.
The Columbus Division of Police acknowledges the gravity of the situation and recognizes the importance of accountability in fostering positive police-community relations. While incidents such as these are regrettable, they serve as reminders of our ongoing commitment to uphold the principles of justice and fairness. As the case progresses, the Division will remain fully cooperative with all investigating authorities."
📺 10TV+ is available for free on Roku & Amazon Fire TV: Stay up to date on what's happening in your community with a 24/7 live stream and on demand content from 10TV — available on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.