Ex-Texas City officer stole $2,400 in Christmas money from dying man, lawsuit claims

TEXAS CITY, Texas – A former Texas City police officer is facing theft and drug charges after an internal affairs investigation, authorities said.

According to Texas City police, an investigation of Linnard Crouch began in December after the department received an accusation of theft from the family of James Mabe.

A lawsuit filed by Mabe's family claims body cam footage shows Crouch stealing $2,400 in cash from Mabe that was a Christmas present of Mabe's. The lawsuit said Mabe was either dying or dead at the time of the alleged theft.

"As my husband clung to life, a police officer, who is charged by law to protect and serve, robbed my husband, when he was in need the most," Mabe's wife, Linda, said.

Police said that as a result of the investigation, charges of theft and possession of a controlled substance have been presented to the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office.

The investigation is ongoing, police said.

Crouch resigned on Jan. 30, according to police.

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