Prichard police officer arrested

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - A Prichard police officer found himself on the wrong side of the law after he was arrested for reckless endangerment.

Authorities say the arrest of Officer Ivan Lopez stems from a road rage incident on the Cochran Bridge. Lopez was booked into Mobile Metro Jail Tuesday.

Mobile Police said Lopez became "enraged" with another driver, pulled in front of the victim's car and then slammed on his brakes, almost causing a crash between the two vehicles back in July.

"Lopez then reportedly began weaving in and out of traffic lanes, endangering others on the bridge,” said Ashley Rains with the Mobile Police Department.

No one was at Lopez’ home to respond to requests for comment Wednesday, but he was released from Mobile Metro Jail on his own recognizance.

Prichard Police Chief Jimmie Gardner would not comment in person, but did release a statement on the matter. He said he is aware of the issue and pointed out that it took place in a private vehicle.

"It is the responsibility and duty of our officers to serve and protect the citizens,” Gardner said. “This allegation is under investigation and, if found to be true, we will take all appropriate actions."

Mobile County Personnel Board Director Donald Dees said Lopez has been with the Prichard Police Department since December of last year. Before that, he was with the Chickasaw Police Department for nearly a year.

Dees said Lopez has not had any complaints filed against him.

FOX10 is also looking into allegations that Lopez is under investigation for excessive force; Gardner said that is only an allegation.