How a can of soda and chips cost a Kansas deputy his law enforcement certificate

The Kansas Commission on Peace Officers’ Standards and Training Commission revoked a Douglas County sheriff’s deputy’s law enforcement certification after he stole a can of soda and bag of chips from a school concession area.

Douglas County Sheriff’s Deputy Donn Dunkle conducted a property check at a school gymnasium on Feb. 1 when he took the soda and chips, according to a summary from the KCPOST.

“Respondent did not have permission from the school to do so and did not pay for the items he took. Respondent left the door unlocked and did not log the property check or activate his body worn camera during the event,” the KCPOST ruling said. “Respondent’s actions were recorded on school security camera, and he admitted to taking the items during a DCSO internal investigation. The school did not wish to press criminal charges against Respondent.”

The commission concluded that the deputy engaged a misdemeanor crime that “reflects on his honesty, trustworthiness, integrity or competence,” even though charges weren’t brought. It also said the actions run counter to Kansas statutes governing standards of “good moral character” of police officers.

The ruling occurred July 27, and KCPOST published its decision Tuesday.