New charges against ex-Hanford cop in drug case

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A new complaint was filed in the case of a Hanford police officer accused of selling drugs and falsifying a report while on the job. 30-year-old Ernesto Servin resigned from his position with the Hanford police department last month before his fellow officers could take him into custody.

On Wednesday, The Kings County District Attorney's office announced another person has come forward in the case accusing Servin of selling drugs while carrying out his duties as a police officer. As a result, two more counts were added to the list of charges.

In Kings County Superior court that morning, Servin pleaded "not guilty" to the charges.

"Some of these occurred while he was definitely on duty," said Kings County District Attorney Larry Crouch. "We found a second person that he supplied drugs too and we're not surprised, but that's what the charges were added for."

They charges include possessing and distributing drugs while carrying a loaded firearm, filing a false police report and indecent exposure.

"These are very severe crimes because he's armed all the times he does these drug offenses," said Crouch. "They carry very serious penalties and potential prison sentences."

The D.A.'s office launched an investigation into Servin, in May, after getting an anonymous tip about his activities. Shortly after, investigators searched his car parked outside the police department and found multiple drugs inside along with a personal firearm.

"We're very disappointed," said Crouch.

Servin resigned from his position before his fellow officers could take him into custody. Hours after his arrest, Action News shot exclusive video of Servin leaving the Kings County jail. He had posted part of his $125,000 bail.

Before Servin was read his charges Wednesday morning, his attorney asked to be relieved from the case. The public defender explained to the court that he's representing several other cases Servin is a witness in and that it by taking this case it could be a conflict of interest. The judge agreed and assigned a new attorney. His next court appearance is scheduled for June 20th.

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crimetracker, drug bust, kings county, hanford, lemoore, local, linda mumma

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