West Springfield police officer demoted, found with sports trading cards taken during raid

WEST SPRINGFIELD -- A police detective is under internal investigation following allegations of misconduct involving the handling of sports trading cards connected to two defendants from a 2023 drug and gun raid. Court records indicate that Detective Andrew Carney allegedly hid the cards under his desk at the police station after they had been taken from the home of defendants Antonio and Franco Fusco.

Antonio Fusco faces serious charges related to drug and gun offenses, while his younger brother Franco is implicated in less severe allegations. The trading cards, previously secured in a safe at the Fusco residence, mysteriously ended up under the detective's desk, raising concerns over the integrity of the investigation. Additionally, a gun scope was reported missing during the same search.

In response to the allegations, Detective Carney has been suspended without pay for one day and has been demoted from his position in the detective unit to the uniform bureau. This disciplinary action was confirmed through a letter issued by West Springfield Police Chief Jay Gearing.

The situation highlights ongoing issues within the police department regarding evidence handling and accountability. As the internal investigation progresses, it raises important questions about the policies and oversight related to police conduct.

The outcome of the case against the Fusco brothers, coupled with the internal investigation into Detective Carney's actions, will likely have implications for both the department and the broader community as they await further developments.