Deputy Charged With Keeping Cash From Drivers

CHARLOTTE (WWJ/AP) - An Eaton County sheriff's deputy is accused of keeping money paid by out-of-state drivers who were stopped for violations.

Prosecutor Jeff Sauter told the Lansing State Journal that 10 drivers were victims earlier this year. The amount of money was less than $1,000.

Brian Cole, 34, is charged with embezzlement by a public official, a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. He declined to comment on the case. He resigned as a deputy last month.

Drivers from outside Michigan who are stopped for violations can give up their driver's license on the spot or pay a cash bond to ensure that they pay the ticket if the offense sticks. In Eaton County, the money is supposed to be given to the District Court.

Cole had been employed by the sheriff's office for more than 10 years. In 2006, Cole was involved in a highly publicized rescue of two boys who fell through ice.

TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.