BROWNSTOWN – The trial of former Seymour Police Chief William “Bill” V. Abbott began this morning in Jackson Circuit Court in Brownstown with Judge Richard Poynter presiding.
The former police chief is facing charges of official misconduct, ghost employment, and theft.
Special Prosecutor Sonia Joanne Leerkamp is presenting the case for the state. Abbott is being represented by Attorney Bradley A. Johnson.
During a four-month investigation by Indiana State Police, detectives determined that Abbott was employed by Schneck Medical Center to schedule off-duty officers to provide security at the hospital. The investigation indicated that he allegedly performed his duties for Schneck Medical Center while he was also working in his official capacity with the Seymour Police Department.
Both Abbot and Lamb were placed on paid administrative leave in October 2019 when an investigation was initiated.
Investigators determined both Abbott and Lamb performed and were paid for duties by outside employers while also working in their official capacity with the police department.
On Feb. 12, 2020, both Abbott and Lamb were arrested. Both men later posted bond and were released.
Lamb’s trial had been scheduled to start at 8:30 a.m. Oct. 28 but has been canceled.
