MADISONVILLE (February 26, 2013)—Ex-Madisonville police Sgt. Jeffrey Covington has been indicted on charges stemming from allegations that he planted drugs in his ex-wife's vehicle during a 2011 child custody fight.
The Madison County grand jury indicted Covington Monday on charges of delivery of a controlled substance, obstruction or retaliation, and official oppression.
Covington resigned last week, police Chief Chuck May said Tuesday.
Covington was free on $5,500 bond Tuesday.
Authorities say a Texas trooper who received information about possible drug transportation and was not aware of the domestic dispute found methamphetamine in Laura Covington's vehicle.
“Unaware of the defendant’s plot, the trooper later conducted a traffic stop and searched Ms. Covington’s vehicle. The search revealed the planted methamphetamine, which prompted the officer to arrest the victim,” the Texas Attorney General’s Office said in a press release.
The drug charge against her was later dropped.
The attorney general's office is prosecuting Covington.
Details on the child custody case weren't immediately released.
