Charlotte officers' alleged group chat turned stopping Black drivers into a contest

A group of officers in Charlotte, North Carolina, allegedly made a game out of racial profiling by daring one another to see who could stop the most Black drivers.

What the messages allegedly said

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department officers were caught sharing racist messages in a group chat, WBTV reports. The officers allegedly used the n-word over and over while talking about using force on Black residents and shooting at them.

The fallout has been huge. More than six officers have reportedly resigned or been recommended for termination.

How the chat came to light

The texts surfaced during a separate state probe. State agents were digging into claims that Officer Seth Elliott abused police surveillance tech to aid someone linked to a drug probe.

While searching his phone they found the group messages. They passed them to CMPD, which opened its own internal investigation.

According to WBTV the officers worked in several different divisions. Those recommended for firing can still appeal. The police chief will make the final call.

Where things stand

Elliott left the force over a month ago. He faces a criminal charge tied to the surveillance claims. His lawyer would not comment on the racist messages.

CMPD has not confirmed or denied the allegations. The department says it will not put up with conduct that erodes public trust and that it is committed to accountability as well as transparency.