Former West Chester Officer Blames Actions On Steroids


HAMILTON, Ohio -- A judge sentenced a former West Chester police officer Thursday to six months in jail for tipping off a suspected drug dealer of an upcoming sting.
David Busemeyer blamed his actions on an addiction to steroids, which he said made him to lose his identity.
"During my time as an undercover narcotics officer I did become jaded and angry, yet I continued with my work," Busemeyer told the court. "My faith was tested daily with what I saw, yet I chose not to talk to anyone."
In addition to his jail term, Busemeyer was placed under three years of community control, ordered to attend substance abuse counseling and fined $2,000.

Busemeyer, who said he was already undergoing substance abuse treatment, was taken into custody in front of his pregnant wife and taken to the Butler County Jail.
He said he used steroids for about five years, including daily use for the nine months before his arrest, and Busemeyer said he contemplated suicide before turning himself in to his police department.
"I could almost hear the sound of my gun going off as I thought about pulling the trigger," Busemeyer said. "It was the darkest moment of my life."
Busemeyer pleaded guilty in December to tampering with evidence and obstructing official business, and he also was indicted on one count of obstructing justice.
Prosecutors said the drug suspect was the brother of a woman with whom Busemeyer was having an affair.
"I can't even begin to describe how badly I let myself down, disappointed my department," he said. "Steroids took over my life."