Ex-WakeMed, Morrisville police officer charged with child sex crimes
SMITHFIELD, N.C. (WTVD) -- A former WakeMed campus police officer is behind bars after surrendering to Johnston County deputies on felony child sex charges.
Chad Roger Penland, 47, of Angier, turned himself in on three felony charges alleging he committed sex crimes against a 15-year-old girl in Johnston County in February 2022.
At the time of the alleged offenses, Penland was a sworn officer with the Morrisville Police Department.
He joined WakeMed Campus Police in 2023. He had also worked there from 2014-18.
WakeMed suspended Penland immediately and said the alleged offenses did not occur on hospital property.
"These allegations from 2022 are profoundly concerning, particularly as they involve the safety and well-being of a minor," a WakeMed spokesperson said.
Penland was charged with felony statutory sex offense with a child 15 or younger, and two counts of felony indecent liberties with a child. He was being held on a $350,000 secured bond.
