Ten former Mount Pleasant police officers face allegations of cheating on a South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy examination, officials told Town Council members during their annual retreat Tuesday.

Police Chief Mark Arnold briefed council members on the ongoing investigation, which involves officers who are no longer with the department. The alleged cheating occurred on a state-mandated test required for law enforcement certification.

The Criminal Justice Academy, which oversees training and certification for all South Carolina law enforcement officers, launched the investigation after discovering irregularities in test results. The academy has not released details about how the alleged cheating was discovered or what methods were used.

Mount Pleasant officials said they are cooperating fully with the state investigation. The town has implemented new oversight procedures for officer training and testing to prevent future incidents.

“We take any allegations of misconduct seriously and will continue to work with state investigators to ensure accountability,” a department spokesperson said.

The cheating allegations add to mounting concerns about police accountability across the Charleston region. Politics & Government coverage has highlighted several cases of officer misconduct investigations in recent months, including incidents in North Charleston and Charleston proper.

The Criminal Justice Academy requires officers to pass written examinations covering state law, constitutional rights, use of force policies and department procedures. Officers who fail to maintain current certification cannot perform law enforcement duties.

Mount Pleasant has not disclosed whether the investigation affects any current cases involving the former officers. Defense attorneys in criminal cases often challenge evidence when officers face misconduct allegations.

The town employs approximately 85 sworn officers serving a population of roughly 90,000 residents. Mount Pleasant has seen rapid growth in recent years, straining municipal resources including police services.

Town Council members received the briefing in closed session, citing personnel matters and ongoing litigation concerns. Council Chairman Jake Rambo said the town would release additional information as the investigation proceeds.

The alleged cheating represents a significant breach of professional standards for law enforcement officers. State law requires officers to maintain integrity in all aspects of their certification and training.

Similar cheating scandals have affected police departments across South Carolina in recent years. The Criminal Justice Academy has increased oversight and implemented new testing protocols in response to multiple incidents statewide.

Mount Pleasant officials said the investigation began several months ago but declined to specify when the alleged cheating occurred. The ten officers involved left the department at various times, though officials would not confirm whether departures were related to the investigation.

The town has hired additional officers to maintain staffing levels while the investigation continues. New recruits undergo enhanced background screening and closer supervision during their probationary periods.

Chief Arnold, who took command of the department in 2019, has emphasized accountability and professional standards during his tenure. The department previously faced scrutiny over use of force policies and community relations.

Mount Pleasant Town Council will receive regular updates on the investigation’s progress. State investigators have not indicated when they expect to complete their review.

The Criminal Justice Academy can revoke officer certifications, impose sanctions or require additional training based on investigation findings. Officers who lose certification cannot work in law enforcement anywhere in South Carolina.

Defense attorneys in Charleston County closely monitor police misconduct investigations because they can affect pending criminal cases. Evidence gathered by officers facing integrity questions often faces challenges in court proceedings.

The investigation’s outcome could influence Mount Pleasant’s hiring and training practices for years to come. Town officials said they are reviewing all department policies to ensure compliance with state standards.

Mount Pleasant residents have not been notified directly about the investigation, though officials said they plan community meetings once the state review concludes. The town’s next regular council meeting is scheduled for January 28.