CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Officer Tyler Kishpaugh has been charged with Driving While Impaired after an incident early Saturday morning, June 16th. He was arrested by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol when driving through Avery County near Banner Elk, NC.
Officer Kishpaugh is assigned to the Steele Creek Division of CMPD, but has been placed on unpaid administrative leave as a result of the arrest. Kishpaugh has been employed with CMPD for almost 17 years, since July 25, 2001. The incident occurred while Kishpaugh was off-duty and driving his personal vehicle.
CMPD began an internal investigation immediately following word of the arrest.
“I am disappointed that a member of our department has fallen short of our organization’s high standards. I expect the men and women of this department will be held accountable when they violate the law no matter where it occurs,” said Chief Putney regarding the incident.
As the investigation continues, any questions concerning the incident may be directed to First Sergeant Mike Baker of the NC State Highway Patrol at (919)733-5027 or michael.d.baker@ncdps.gov.
