5 Philly officers fired over conspiracy, theft charges, officials say

Five veteran officers with the Philadelphia Police Department have been suspended and face termination after conspiracy and theft charges were filed against them, officials said.

The charges come after an investigation into a youth boxing program in Philadelphia known as “Guns Down, Gloves Up.”

According to officials, the five officers allegedly got paid twice for their participation: By the program and by the city.

The officers facing termination are:

• Police Officer Brittanie Crockett, who had 10 years of service
• Police Officer Daniel Moll, who had 26 years of service
• Police Officer Janae McDonald, who had 29 years of service
• Police Officer Mark DiGenio, who had 27 years of service
• Police Officer Michael Minor, who had 18 years of service

There are four other officers accused of this same activity. They all retired before the charges were filed, they include:

• Former Police Officer Robyn Gee, who had 24 years of service
• Former Police Officer George Gee, who had 29 years of service
• Former Police Officer LaCarmela Fortune, who had 25 years of service
• Former Police Captain Nashid Akil, who had 22 years of service

Each of the officers were charged with conspiracy, theft by unlawful taking, theft by deception and receiving stolen property.

The Philadelphia Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division investigated along with the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office.

Philadelphia Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel issued a statement Friday regarding the charges:

“Today, I took direct action to dismiss five Philadelphia Police Officers following the filing of criminal charges related to their participation in the ‘Guns Down, Gloves Up’ boxing program.
Since the start of the investigation in 2023, the active-duty officers had been assigned to administrative duty. With the filing of charges by the District Attorney’s Office, I have moved forward with their dismissal.
I am deeply troubled by this entire situation – as all Philadelphia Police Officers are expected to maintain the highest level of professional and ethical standards. However, I am particularly disappointed by the involvement of a former commanding officer. PPD commanders are expected to set the standard for integrity and accountability, and to look out for the best interests of their subordinate officers and the communities we serve. The men and women of the Philadelphia Police Department work tirelessly every day to earn and maintain the trust of our residents. When that trust is compromised, we must act decisively. As commissioner, I remain steadfast in my commitment to honor, integrity, and accountability at every level of this Department.”