Former Raleigh police officer Tremale Cogdell is charged with exploiting a crash victim while on duty. Officials call the case “troubling and disgraceful.”
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Former Raleigh Police Officer Accused of Sexually Assaulting Crash Victim While on Duty

Phyllis Coley @phyllis_coley

RALEIGH, N.C. — A former Raleigh police officer is facing serious criminal charges after investigators say he exploited a crash victim while on duty and obstructed justice to avoid a DUI investigation.

Cogdell

Authorities say Tremale Cogdell, 28, was arrested following an investigation by the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) and the Raleigh Police Department (RPD). The SBI alerted RPD on September 26, prompting Chief Rico Boyce to place Cogdell on administrative leave immediately.

Incident Timeline and Investigation

According to court documents, the incident happened September 12 when Cogdell allegedly encountered a female crash victim while on duty. Instead of conducting a proper investigation, he reportedly drove the woman to his home and engaged in sexual activity with her.

Investigators allege Cogdell then chose not to pursue a DUI investigation in exchange for the sexual encounter — a move prosecutors say amounted to obstruction of justice.

Police Chief Condemns Actions

Chief Rico Boyce condemned the alleged misconduct, calling it “troubling and disgraceful.”

“The actions that led to Mr. Cogdell’s arrest reflect poorly on the Raleigh Police Department and cast a shadow on the integrity we work so hard to uphold,” Boyce said. “This is a reminder that no one is above accountability, not even those who wear the badge.”

Victim’s Attorney Speaks Out

The victim’s attorney, Stacy Miller, described Cogdell as a “sexual predator with a badge” and praised her client’s courage for coming forward.

“He clearly would have done this again if not for the courageousness of our client, who is a strong, brave young woman,” Miller said. “We encourage any other victims to reach out.”

Charges Filed and Ongoing Investigation

Cogdell is charged with:

  • Felony sexual misconduct of a person in custody
  • Felony obstruction of justice
  • Misdemeanor willful neglect of duty

The investigation remains active, and authorities urge anyone with additional information or potential victims to contact law enforcement.