JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A former Mississippi police officer was arrested after investigators said he embezzled funds from the Centreville Police Department.

According to State Auditor Shad White, Patrick Harris took three semi-automatic pistols and sold them to a pawn shop.

White said Harris pawned his assigned pistol to a pawn shop. A few months later, Harris allegedly took two pistols from the evidence/property room and pawned them off.

“We have zero tolerance for thievery of taxpayer dollars, big or small,” said White. “We will continue to work hand in hand with prosecutors to ensure your money is spent the way it should be.”

If convicted Harris faces up to $5,000 in fines and up to 20 years in prison.

Suspected fraud can be reported to the Auditor’s office by clicking the red button at www.osa.ms.gov or calling 1-(800)-321-1275 during normal business hours.