Updated: On May 12, a visiting judge dismissed the charge against Rowe, according to the Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The original story follows.
THE INDEPENDENT NEWS
COURTHOUSE — A veteran Virginia Beach police officer is accused of embezzlement after he was found in possession of unclaimed property that was supposed to be destroyed, according to the police department.
Master Police Officer Mark W. Rowe, 49, is charged with one count of misdemeanor embezzlement, according to a statement released to reporters by Master Police Officer Tonya Pierce, a department spokesperson.
Rowe was assigned to the property and evidence unit. He is accused of having rifle bags valued at less than $200, according to an arrest warrant. The date of the alleged offense was Monday, Aug. 29.
Rowe was arrested on Wednesday, Sept. 7, and will remain on administrative duties until criminal and administrative investigations are complete, the statement said.
Rowe has been with the department for 17 years. He did not immediately respond to a phone call from The Independent News on Friday, Sept. 9.
Rowe was released on a $5,000 bond, and he is scheduled to appear in General District Court on Tuesday, Oct. 11, according to court records.
Ed. — Updated on Friday, Sept. 9, to include information from an arrest warrant and court records.
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