Knoxville, TN (WOKI) Knoxville police officer Dan Roark, arrested on federal child pornography charges last week is now, officially, out of a job.
The decision was handed-down Monday by KPD Chief Paul Noel after investigators with the Office of Professional Standards conducted a “detailed” investigation into Roark’s conduct following allegations of Roark asking for naked pictures of a five-year-old girl from a Virginia woman with whom he was in a relationship, according to investigators.
Noel provided a statement after the firing, condemning Roark’s actions.
“Roark’s alleged actions are shocking and beyond comprehension.
The Office of Professional Standards conducted an investigation based upon the evidence that was presented in the federal complaint and during his initial appearance and detention hearing in federal court. A pre-disciplinary hearing was held today to review that evidence and the decision was made to terminate his employment, effective immediately.
I appreciate OPS for working through our internal, administrative investigation as quickly and thoroughly as possible. We will continue to cooperate fully with the ongoing federal investigation.
I extend my deepest sympathies to the child victimized by his actions, who has undoubtedly suffered unimaginable trauma.” – Chief of Knoxville Police Paul Noel
Roark started working at KPD in 2007 and was last on patrol in 2020.
