Official: Red Springs police chief's rental units held drugs, firearms

LUMBERTON, N.C. -- An investigation found that a police chief in North Carolina had rental units holding images of nude women, narcotics, and firearms.

A Robeson County District Attorney's Office release says Red Springs Police Chief Ronnie Patterson's units were auctioned off for nonpayment and found to also have a file detailing a sexual harassment allegation against him.

Citing the release, news outlets report crime scene photos, investigative files, and ammunition also were in the unit.

Stay on top of breaking news stories with the ABC11 News App

An investigation into missing personnel files requested by former Mayor John McNeill uncovered the units. McNeill's request followed portions of Patterson's personnel files surfacing during his county sheriff campaign.

Patterson and town manager Davis Ashburn were arrested on charges including unlawful removal of public records.

They are set to appear in court Monday. It's unclear if they have lawyers.