More Great Press For The Philadelphia Police Department

Just when you thought the Philadelphia Police Department couldn't get any more bad press, I give you the following story, which was announced this morning. Officers like this make the rest of us look like circus clowns. And although you shouldn't judge an organization on the actions of a few bad (read: God-awful) bad apples, I can almost understand why some people don't like us.

For the record, this officer is still innocent until proven guilty, and deserves a fair trial. But be forewarned, this story will make your stomach turn. Trust me.

Philadelphia police officials have announced the arrest of one of their own on rape charges. The officer turned himself in and was arrested Tuesday. He faces a long list of charges and is suspended with intent to dismiss.

Police Internal Affairs Chief Inspector Bill Colarulo says the investigation into the allegations against 40-year-old Thomas Gitto began in November, 2005, when a then 16-year-old girl came forward:

"Internal affairs joined in on the investigation along with the special victim's unit, and it was learned through our investigation that the young girl, when she was 14 years of age, and when the officer was 36 years of age was raped three different times. Even more egregious was that one of these incident happened inside a police trailer."

Colarulo says these incidents including one that allegedly occurred inside of Gitto's home happened when he was off duty. He's been on desk duty since 2005. Colarulo will not reveal how Gitto came to know the victim except to say the officer had a relationship with a member of this girl's family. He's been suspended with the intent to dismiss. (H/T - KYW1060.com)

What can I possibly say about this story? Truly despicable.