GULFPORT — A Ruleville police officer was arrested Wednesday in Gulfport on federal charges of extortion, blackmail, and deprivation of rights under color of law, according to court documents and statements from law enforcement officials.
Antonio Artez Wade, 36, allegedly targeted a person identified as “Victim 1” during a traffic stop on Sept. 17. Court documents say Wade, aware the individual lacked identification or legal status, demanded $2,500 in exchange for “helping” the victim.
Wade is charged with extortion under the Hobbs Act, 18 U.S.C. § 1951, blackmail under 18 U.S.C. § 873, and deprivation of rights under color of law, 18 U.S.C. § 242. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison.
“No traffic stop should ever turn into a shakedown,” U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner said. “Corruption of the kind alleged here undermines public safety and trust in law enforcement, and it will simply not be tolerated.”
A screenshot from a public post on Officer Wade’s Facebook pageHomeland Security Investigations Assistant Special Agent in Charge Matthew Reidell said the case involves serious violations that harm vulnerable individuals and undermine the integrity of the immigration system. “HSI will continue working with our partners to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” he said.
Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell called the arrest “deeply troubling” and said the agency will work with federal and local partners to hold any officer who violates public trust accountable.
Attorney General Lynn Fitch said Wade’s alleged actions “will not be tolerated” and thanked federal and state partners for their work on the case. She added that the Attorney General’s Office looks forward to its day in state court.
Wade is being held without bond pending a detention hearing. Separate state charges may be filed. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Mims is prosecuting.
