The Science Hill Police Chief has now found himself in trouble with the law. William “Robbie” Gossett turned himself into the Pulaski County Detention Center Thursday morning, after a grand jury indicted him with abuse of public trust and theft of more than ten-thousand dollars.
In Science Hill, Gossett is not only the Police Chief, but also the sole police officer in the entire town. Therefore, people said the news of the indictment came as a big surprise.
http://liarcatchers.com/contact.php
“This is the first I have heard. I am just totally surprised and shocked,” said Iva McCullough, with the Science Hill United Methodist Church. “He’s a very wonderful upstanding man of this community. Somebody who keeps our streets safe, makes you feel safe at home.”
People in Science Hill said Police Chief Gossett, better known as Robbie, is a pillar of the community.
“Just a good man, who has obviously made a bad decision,” said McCullough.
According to court documents, sometime between July of 2008 and October of 2009, Gossett stole city funds of at least ten-thousand dollars, therefore abusing the public’s trust. The court documents said Gossett “committed the offense of Abuse of Public Trust, when, as a public servant/employee of the city of Science Hill, he obtained funds belonging to the City of Science Hill and failed to make the required disposition of said funds, and dealt with them as his own, in an amount of $10,000 or more.”
“It’s always upsetting to hear something like this. But, until he’s actually proven guilty, we can only assume this is just a charge,” said Pulaski County Judge Executive Steve Kelley.
“Needless to say, he’s taken aback, he’s shocked by this,” said Scott Foster, Gossett’s attorney.
Foster said Gossett turned himself into the jail this morning, and with supporters help, posted $50-thousand dollar property bond. Foster said they have no idea what situation the charges pertain to, and the only information they have is within the indictment.
“I think he’s hurt and dismayed by these charges. I know absolutely he denies the charges, and we want to work to clear his name. There’s no doubt about that,” said Foster.
The question remains of what happens to his position to protect the city? Science Hill Mayor William Dick said “I really have no comment. We’ll let it play out in the judicial system.” He said until the Science Hill City Council meets to discuss the situation, Gossett will still be on the job as police chief. The mayor said the city council may meet as early as Friday.
“I have full confidence in Mayor Dick, and his council, to do the right thing,” said Kelley.
Gossett will face a judge for an arraignment hearing on December 22nd. Foster said Gossett plans to plead not guilty to all four felony charges.
