Evansville, Ind. — An Evansville Police Department (EPD) officer was arrested following an off-duty incident that occurred during a celebration at the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) lodge. Officer Anthony Stephenson, 34, turned himself in at the Vanderburgh County Jail on Friday after a warrant was issued for his arrest on charges of Criminal Recklessness with a Deadly Weapon.
The incident took place on April 25, during a celebration held at the FOP Lodge on Court Street to mark the completion of probationary periods for several officers within the department. The gathering, intended to celebrate the officers’ achievements, took an unfortunate turn later in the evening.
According to the EPD, three officers who had worked the second shift decided to join the celebration after their shift ended. However, when they arrived at the FOP lodge, they found it had already closed. As they stood outside, a group of individuals who had attended the celebration approached them. Among the group was Officer Stephenson, who was reportedly highly intoxicated at the time.
EPD officials say Stephenson attempted to persuade the group to continue the celebration by heading to another bar. As the situation unfolded, one of the officers decided to leave. At that moment, Stephenson allegedly pulled a gun from his holster and pointed it at the officer.
The situation escalated when Stephenson reportedly refused to turn over the firearm after the officer expressed concern. Following the incident, EPD says Stephenson made several phone calls, during which he admitted responsibility for the altercation. According to EPD, during one of these calls, Stephenson is quoted as saying, “100 percent owns up to it,” acknowledging his actions.
In response to the incident, EPD placed Officer Stephenson on unpaid administrative leave while an investigation was conducted. The arrest was made after the investigation led to the issuance of the warrant. Stephenson was released from the Vanderburgh County Jail after posting a $500 bond.
In a statement following the arrest, FOP Lodge #73 Vice President Mark Saltzman expressed the organization’s concern over the incident. While the statement did not provide further details, it made clear that the FOP was taking the situation seriously.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the EPD has emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability. The investigation into Officer Stephenson’s actions continues, and further developments are expected in the coming weeks.
