APD Chief's Decision on "Significant" Department Changes Could Come Soon

By Jim Burress

Atlanta, GA – The most notable of the possible changes includes potentially disbanding the Red Dog unit. The move would come after a string of missteps by its officers.

While the few dozen officers who make up Red Dog are known for aggressively fighting drug activity, critics say those tactics go beyond the law.

In fact the unit has had a rocky few years. In 2009, it came under fire for its part in a botched raid on a Midtown gay bar. The city just paid more than a million dollars to settle the case.

Last week, allegations surfaced that Red Dog officers publicly fondled two men during a traffic stop. The three officers were taken off the streets pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

Police spokesman Sgt. Curtis Davenport told WABE the information is a "rumor." But sources with close knowledge say Chief George Turner could announce the changes soon.

Jim Burress, WABE News.