Lancaster County authorities have cited a Lincoln police officer was arrested Tuesday for purchasing alcohol for his girlfriend.
26-year-old Scott Bierle is dating 19 year old Mercedees Smith. On December 21, Lincoln Police Chief Jeff Bliemeister contacted Sheriff Terry Wagner with information a Lincoln police officer may have provided alcohol to a minor and asked if the Sheriff’s Office would conduct an investigation into the potential criminal violation while the Lincoln Police Department conducted its internal investigation.
The criminal investigation revealed off-duty Lincoln police officers gathered at a local bar on December 16. During that gathering, Bierle is accused of buying alcohol for Smith. The investigation began when other Lincoln police officers came forward with information of a potential criminal violation by a co-worker at the bar where Lincoln Police have enforcement responsibilities.
Bleimeister says the incident occurred while other off-duty Lincoln Police employees were at the same event. "The employees that brought the information forward did what is right and what is expected for members of the law enforcement profession."
Bierle has since been placed on modified duty. Smith was cited for minor in possession of alcohol. They are scheduled to appear in Lancaster County Court February 13.