Officials say Officer Hailey was arrested after a hit and run accident. He reportedly drove his vehicle into a tree along Ashland Avenue.
Investigators say Hailey’s blood alcohol level was .000% at the time, but he told officers he had taken a prescription sleep medication earlier in the morning.
He was also charged with careless driving, which was dismissed by City Prosecutor Rebecca Spenser.
We may never know what punishment will be meted out to Hailey by the St Joseph Police Department. Personnel information is protected by law, and officials do not want to expose the department to possible lawsuits.
Hailey returned to active duty after a brief investigation by Professional Standards officials within the department. Now that investigation will be closed, and officer Hailey will be afforded due process. He will face a range of possible additional penalties from the department. Although his firing is not seen as likely, Hailey could face a possible suspension without pay or other disciplinary action.