State Police Commissioner Nominee Caught on Tape Removing Signs

Acting Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner Marcus Brown issued a public apology Thursday after he was caught on video footage removing two signs critical of his nomination to the post by Governor Tom Wolf.

According to philly.com, the video shows Brown removing two signs from the side of a road in Hampden Township, a suburb of Harrisburg. Since his appointment as acting chief and nomination for the cabinet position in January, Brown received criticism for wearing the state trooper uniform, but not attending a Pennsylvania police academy. He grew up outside Harrisburg and previously served as the Maryland State Police superintendent before Wolf’s selection. The critical signs read, “Marcus Brown Didn’t Earn It!” and “Marcus Brown Don’t Wear It!” reports say.

In his statement, Brown acknowledged the controversy, saying that he considered wearing the uniform conveyed respect for his colleagues and his desire to properly represent the law enforcement agency. He says that he weathered derogatory attacks on social media, but that an individual had discovered where he lived and where his children went to school.

The statement goes on to say:

I made a mistake and an error in judgment. After seeing the signs and realizing that someone had invaded my family’s privacy, I acted hastily without considering my role and the leadership position I hold in the commonwealth. My actions clearly did not reflect well on me or the organization I represent, and I regret that. My family was placed in fear; I reacted as a father to protect my children and my family. Local law enforcement was immediately notified and the signs were turned over to them.

Hampden Township Police Chief Steve Junkin told the Patriot-News that his office is investigating with the Cumberland County District Attorney’s office whether Brown’s actions could result in theft charges.