MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP, ABC24.COM) - Authorities have arrested a Memphis Police officer at a department store and charged her with theft.
The department identified the suspect as 33-year-old Officer Quattarra Gardner, who has been on the police force since 2003 and is assigned to the Union Station.
A police spokeswoman said Gardner is accused of entering a dressing room at Macy's in Germantown on Thursday and concealing over $700 worth of merchandise in a diaper bag and garment bag.
She was charged with theft over $500 and was suspended with pay, pending the outcome of the charge.
Memphis Police Director Toney Armstrong released the following statement on Gardner's arrest:
"This type of behavior gives officers, who are upstanding citizens of this community, a tarnished image. The actions of this one officer are in no way indicative of the men and women who serve and protect this city. As Director of the Memphis Police Department, I will not tolerate this behavior under my watch."
