The case of Dustin Cotton, a former Tennessee Highway Patrol officer, illustrates significant concerns regarding the integrity and conduct of law enforcement officers. Cotton faced accusations of ghost stops—running license plates to simulate traffic stops without actually pulling drivers over.
He also admitted to making false stops for humorous reasons, including during marriage proposals involving his friends.
Cotton’s actions extended to using social media and texting while driving, speeding, and ignoring court subpoenas after a DUI arrest, which led to the dismissal of a case.
Despite repeatedly defending his behavior during a hearing before the Tennessee Peace Officers Standards and Training POST commission, Cotton acknowledged some actions were illegal.
The commission ultimately ruled to decertify him, highlighting that his integrity as a law enforcement officer had been irreparably damaged.