St. Mary Parish Deputy arrested for Malfeasance in Office for misleading an investigation

FRANKLIN, La. (KLFY) - A St. Mary Parish Deputy has been arrested for Malfeasance in Office charges. Michael Swords, 71, Patterson, LA, was arrested on Friday on a warrant for malfeasance in office.

Authorities say they were made aware of an incident in which an Saint Mary Parish Sheriff's Office fleet vehicle was involved in a collision with an emergency services vehicle from another agency. T Officials say during the investigation, they learned deputy, Michael Swords, had intentionally provided inaccurate information regarding the operation of the department vehicle.

After an internal investigation, authorities say Swords had violated internal policies and law. The decision was made to terminate the employment of the deputy from the SMPSO, and a warrant was obtained on the charge of malfeasance in office. "It is never pleasant to have to arrest one of our own," said Sheriff Gary Driskell. "However, we must hold ourselves as law enforcement officers to the same standard as all citizens. Upholding the law and maintaining public trust are essential to our mission."

Swords was transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking. Bail was set at $25,000.