Former Schaumburg officer pleads guilty to misconduct
A former Schaumburg police officer who improperly kept a silver .22-caliber revolver a resident had turned in for disposal last April, pleaded guilty to official misconduct this week, court records show.
Bryan Woodyard, 39, was sentenced to 18 months probation and ordered to pay $679 in fines.
Prosecutors say Woodyard, a seven-year veteran, was on duty April 23 when two female Schaumburg residents entered the department to turn over a handgun that one carried in a paper bag. After asking the women to step outside, prosecutors say Woodyard offered to purchase the gun, telling them he was a collector. The owner told him she didn't want to sell it and gave the bag containing the gun to Woodyard, who said he would take care of it, prosecutors said during Woodyard's bond hearing.
Several days later, the gun's owner called the department concerned about having no record of surrendering the gun or her interaction with the officer. That prompted an investigation that led to Woodyard being placed on administrative leave. He resigned several days later. Investigators also notified the Office of the Cook County State's Attorney.
“We thank the Cook County State's Attorney's Office for their assistance in this matter and trust and support their efforts in resolving the case through the judicial system,” Interim Police Chief Ken Bouche said.
Woodyard's arrest marked the fourth time Schaumburg officers faced charges this year. In January, three undercover police officers were arrested in DuPage County on multiple charges, including criminal drug conspiracy, delivery of a controlled substance, armed violence and official misconduct among others. All three subsequently resigned.