Four former Savannah Police Department employees have been arrested after investigators said they used the department’s license plate camera system for reasons unrelated to police work. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation announced the arrests Friday. Those charged are: Dillard, Phillips and Rich were police officers when the alleged misuse took place. Thomas was a civilian employee who worked as a community service specialist. All four were booked into the Chatham County Jail. Savannah police said the department will continue working with the GBI and other agencies as the investigation moves forward. Because the case remains open, officials said they are limited in what they can release. Police Chief Lenny B. Gunther called the arrests disappointing and said all department employees are expected to follow the law. “I expect all members of the Savannah Police Department, whether sworn or civilian, to act with integrity, professionalism, and respect for the law,” Gunther said in a written statement. “We understand that community trust must be earned and kept. There is no excuse for breaking that trust.” Gunther said the alleged actions of a small number of employees should not overshadow the work of others in the department. “The actions of a few do not reflect the dedication and professionalism of the men and women who honorably serve our community every day,” he said. The police department began an internal investigation July 27 after a review of the Flock Safety camera…
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