By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
A Priceville police officer fired after a high-speed chase that killed a Hartselle teenager has been reinstated following a decision by the Priceville City Council on Monday.
The council voted to reverse the firing of Officer Garry Chapman, son of reality TV star Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman, after meeting in executive session for more than three hours. Chapman will return to duty after a 10-day unpaid suspension, a period of probation, and retraining with a supervisor, according to WHNT.
Chapman was fired following a Sept. 6 pursuit of suspected drunk driver Archie Hale, who crashed in downtown Hartselle, killing 17-year-old Tristan Hollis and injuring three others. Police Chief Jerry Holmes said Chapman violated department policy by chasing the suspect at speeds exceeding 100 mph, endangering the public.
Chapman’s attorney, Scott Moro, said his client was made a “scapegoat,” insisting he followed protocol.
Public reaction to the reinstatement was divided. Mike Silver, a family friend of the victims, spoke against the council’s decision.
“I don’t think Mr. Chapman considered the potential loss of life that didn’t just possibly occur — it did occur,” Silver said.
Duane Chapman thanked the council for giving his son another opportunity.
“I’m known as a second-chance guy,” he said. “I appreciate every time someone gets one.”
Archie Hale remains jailed in Morgan County without bond on reckless murder charges.