Global articles on espionage, spying, bugs, and other interesting topics.

Clayton sheriff deputy indicted on eavesdropping and obstruction charges

By Tammy Joyner

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

A Clayton County grand jury indicted a sheriff’s deputy Thursday on charges of invasion of privacy and obstruction of a law officer.

Alicia Parkes is accused of using a recording device to eavesdrop on another employee in a restroom late last year. In a separate 2008 incident, she is also accused of trying to prevent a police officer from arresting one of her relatives after Parkes called 911 emergency services. At the time of that incident, Parkes worked for the Clayton County Police Department.

If convicted, Parkes faces one to five years in jail and possible fines. About a half-dozen witnesses testified before the grand jury Wednesday. Parkes allegedly admitted during an internal affairs investigation to making the recording, according to testimony given during the grand jury hearing.

“It’s always a sad day when a law enforcement officer is indicted because it creates a little bit of a stain on all of us,” Sheriff Kem Kimbrough said Friday. “But we have an obligation to reserve final judgement on her until the court process works its way through.”

Parkes no longer serves as public information officer for the sheriff’s department, Kimbrough said. She is still employed by the department but is on administrative leave until Monday when Kimbrough said he will decide on her future with the department.

Parkes is expected to turn herself in, officials said. Parkes’ attorney, Ricky Morris, was unavailable for comment.