High-ranking cop investigated for abuse of power

WASHINGTON - A high-ranking D.C. police officer is under investigation for abusing his powers, according to a police source.

WTOP has learned Capt. Melvin Gresham from the Third District Police station in Northwest was involved in an accident with a Metro bus while driving his department vehicle. Gresham told a subordinate officer, who responded to the accident, to change a police report to indicate the Metro bus driver was at fault.

D.C. Police Spokesperson Traci Hughes will not comment on the specifics, but confirms an internal investigation is underway. Hughes says Gresham has been placed on non-contact status, which means he was required to turn in his badge and gun and will have no contact with the public until the investigation is completed. Gresham will continue to get paid.

Several sources familiar with department protocol tell WTOP the administrative move indicates the department may be seeking to fire Gresham.

Gresham did not return requests for comment.

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