By WILLIAM MURPHY william.murphy@newsday.com
A former high-ranking Nassau County police official pleaded guilty Wednesday to charges he conspired with two colleagues to prevent the arrest of a prominent police fundraiser’s son.
Retired Deputy Chief of Patrol John Hunter pleaded guilty to three misdemeanors — two counts of official misconduct and one count of conspiracy.
“I apologize for any embarrassment I have caused the police department I have loved and served for 35 years,” Hunter told the judge before he was sentenced to three years of probation and 500 hours of community service. He also agreed to make a training video for incoming police recruits, and will be allowed to keep his permit to carry a firearm.
Nassau County District Attorney Kathleen Rice issued a statement after the court proceeding.
“John Hunter violated his oath and the law when he gave special treatment to a wealthy friend’s son, and today’s guilty plea ensures that he will face serious consequences for his conduct,” Rice said.
Earlier this year, Second Deputy Commissioner William Flanagan was convicted of the same three misdemeanors at trial. He could face up to a year in jail when he is sentenced.
Hunter, Flanagan and retired Seventh Precinct Squad Deputy Cmdr. Alan Sharpe conspired to stop the arrest of Zachary Parker, who was suspected in the theft of about $11,000 of electronic equipment from John F. Kennedy High School in Bellmore in May 2009, prosecutors said. Prosecutors ultimately charged Parker, who later pleaded guilty.
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