Huntsville officer pleads guilty to conspiracy charge

HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) - A Huntsville police officer at the center of a federal bribery investigation pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge.

Lewis Hall changed his plea to guilty after federal prosecutors offered him a deal.

He faces up to five years and a fine.

In return for his guilty plea, federal prosecutors have agreed to drop the other charges Hall faced for his role in a bribery scheme.

Authorities say the former "Officer of the Year" tried to bribe another officer into making another man's cocaine trafficking charges go away.

As part of the plea agreement, Hall has to surrender any law enforcement certifications and can no longer be employed in the field.

If Lewis assists the government investigation, his potential sentence could be reduced.

He has to surrender law enforcement certification and cannot work in any type of law enforcement position.

"He'll never work in law enforcement again," said Hall's attorney, Robert Tuten. "This is a sad day for the Lewis Hall family and for Lewis. It's also a sad day for the Huntsville Police Department.

Tuten added he thinks this case is an example to everyone that all are expected to obey the law, no matter your position.

Hall's sentencing is scheduled for July 14.

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