Huntsville, AL, September 28, 2025
News Summary
Huntsville’s police department faces scrutiny as retired officer Nathan Nickelson is arrested, becoming the fifth officer charged with crimes since July. Nickelson allegedly pocketed $25,000 from the Crime Stoppers program. Other recent arrests include Sgt. Timothy Richards and officers George Wheeler III and Scott Hartman for various offenses. Community concerns about police integrity grow, prompting a response from Police Chief Kirk Giles. Several officers are reassigned while investigations continue.
Huntsville Sees Rise in Police Officer Arrests Amid Investigations
Huntsville’s law enforcement community is once again under scrutiny following the arrest of retired police officer Nathan Nickelson, making him the fifth officer from the Huntsville Police Department (HPD) to face criminal charges since July. The charges against Nickelson involve allegedly pocketing $25,000 in reward money that was designated for tipsters through the local Crime Stoppers program.
Nickelson, who previously served as the head of Crime Stoppers, was taken into custody after an independent investigation was prompted by reporting irregularities in the Crime Stoppers account after his retirement in August 2024. Following his arrest, Nickelson was released from jail after posting a $10,000 bond.
Just a day prior to Nickelson’s arrest, another HPD officer, Sgt. Timothy Richards, was charged with Criminal Use of Defensive Spray while off duty. Earlier in the month, officers George Wheeler III and Scott Hartman were also arrested for driving under the influence in separate incidents. These incidents follow the earlier case of Chadwick Campbell, who was charged in July with willful torture and abuse of a child. Additionally, former officer David McCoy is currently awaiting trial for a charged capital murder regarding the alleged killing of his pregnant girlfriend in 2022.
Community Concerns and Police Department Response
The series of arrests have raised significant concerns within the Huntsville community about the integrity of the police department. In response to these issues, Police Chief Kirk Giles issued a statement reaffirming the department’s commitment to integrity and professionalism. He expressed that the department takes these allegations seriously and is dedicated to addressing the community’s concerns.
As a result of the recent events, officers Wheeler, Hartman, and Campbell have been reassigned to desk duty, while Sgt. Richards has been placed on administrative leave. The Huntsville Area Crime Stoppers has confirmed its cooperation with the Alabama Attorney General’s Office in the investigation regarding Nickelson’s alleged misconduct.
Context of the Arrests
The ongoing investigations into the Huntsville Police Department began garnering public attention following a series of troubling incidents that have highlighted issues related to police conduct. The case involving Nickelson is particularly significant due to his former role as head of a program that aimed to reduce crime through community engagement. The actions that led to his arrest have added to a growing list of troubling allegations against officers within the department.
These developments come at a time when the community is increasingly vigilant about the accountability and ethics of local law enforcement. As the investigation unfolds, the HPD is working with state authorities to ensure transparency and restore public trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was recently arrested in Huntsville?
Retired Huntsville Police officer Nathan Nickelson was recently arrested, marking the fifth officer from HPD arrested since July.
What charges does Nathan Nickelson face?
Nickelson is charged with pocketing $25,000 in reward money intended for tipsters.
What has the police chief said about the situation?
Police Chief Kirk Giles issued a statement addressing the community’s concerns, emphasizing the department’s commitment to integrity and professionalism.
What is the status of other officers involved?
Officers George Wheeler III, Scott Hartman, and Chadwick Campbell have been reassigned to desk duty, while Sgt. Timothy Richards is on administrative leave.
Summary of Recent Police Arrests in Huntsville
| Name | Charges | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Nathan Nickelson | Pocketed $25,000 in reward money | Released on $10,000 bond |
| Timothy Richards | Criminal Use of Defensive Spray | On administrative leave |
| George Wheeler III | Driving Under Influence | Reassigned to desk duty |
| Scott Hartman | Driving Under Influence | Reassigned to desk duty |
| Chadwick Campbell | Willful torture/abuse of a child | Reassigned to desk duty |
| David McCoy | Capital murder (awaiting trial) | Awaiting trial |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WAFF: Huntsville Police Chief Addresses 5th Officer Arrest
- Rocket City Now: Huntsville Police Sergeant Arrested
- WSFA: Huntsville Police Sergeant Arrested for Defensive Spray
- AL.com: Off-Duty Huntsville Police Officer Arrested for DUI
- WAAY: Retired Huntsville Police Officer Arrested
- Wikipedia: Huntsville, Alabama
- Google Search: Huntsville Police Department
- Google Scholar: Huntsville Police Officer Arrests
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police
- Google News: Huntsville Police Department
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
