Drug enforcement unit disbanded in Glynn County for misconduct after internal investigation

An internal investigation uncovered alleged misconduct within the Glynn-Brunswick Narcotics Enforcement Team, which led to the unit being disbanded.

The Glynn County Police Department called in the GBI to investigate after Chief of Staff Brian Scott was notified of reported inappropriate behavior involving an officer assigned to the GBNET.

The report found Investigator James Cassada was involved in sexual relationships with two confidential informants since 2017. He resigned in February at the initial phase of the investigation.

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According to the report, Cassada told another investigator not to pursue drug charges against his CI.

A CI told investigators Cassada asked her how much it would cost him to have sex with her. The CI said they had sex twice under the Sidney Lanier Bridge in his department issued vehicle.

The report said there were also allegations that Cassada used cocaine and methamphetamine and supplied the drugs to CIs, but there was insufficient evidence to support those claims.

The Police Department announced the commander of the GBNET was facing disciplinary action for his conduct.

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The investigation found three officers came to Capt. Davis Hassler, who was commander between 2016 and 208, with information about the misconduct, but he never opened an investigation.

During the interview, Hassler denied having any knowledge of the allegations. He said if an employee had come to him with the allegations, he would have investigated them.

Hassler announced he now plans to resign and retire.

A joint investigative unit will be established in the future identified as the Brunswick-Glynn Special Investigative Unit. The unit will conduct investigations concerning narcotic crimes, prostitution, human trafficking, illegal gambling, criminal street gangs and alcoholic violations.

Action News Jax reached out to the District Attorney’s Office to find out how many cases could be affected. We’re still waiting on a response.

Cox Media Group