Parsek and eight civilian accomplices pled guilty last March in Wilmington’s Federal District Court to conspiracy to commit civil rights violations, substantive deprivation of rights, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of stolen firearms, use of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, false statements to an FBI agent and obstruction of justice. Parsek faces fifteen years in federal prison when his sentencing hearing is held next month.
While on duty Parsek would direct accomplices to homes that were unoccupied due to vacationing owners or after arresting victims so that their properties could be robbed of guns, drugs, home electronics or cash. In one instance alone accomplices stole items valued at over $47,000.
Ofcr Russell became aware of the conspiracy through professional and social contacts and reported the burglary ring to the FBI. Russell then agreed to go undercover under the supervision of FBI Special Agent T. Gannon to help develop an airtight case against the group.
At an informal ceremony at the Winterville Police Department, FBI Supervisory Special Agent T. Flynn presented Ofcr Russell with a Certificate of Recognition awarded by the director of the FBI for “…outstanding cooperation and assistance in connection with an investigation of great importance.”
Winterville Police Chief Billy Wilkes said of Russell, “It takes a great amount of courage to do any kind of undercover work. The fact that she undertook this assignment with only four months of police experience under her belt against a crooked cop for eighteen months speaks volumes about her integrity and guts.”
Ofcr Russell is now a two-year police veteran presently assigned to patrol duties with aspirations of becoming an investigator. “We are fortunate to have officers of her caliber in the department”, Wilkes said, “She’s a real go-getter with a long and successful career ahead of her.” Ofcr Russell was recognized by the Winterville Board of Aldermen at their regular July meeting.
