Md. police officer accused of helping fiance to operate cocaine ring

(CBS/WUSA) GREENBELT, Md. - Maryland police officer Delores Culmer faced federal charges Wednesday that she used her privileges as an officer to help her fiance, a convicted drug dealer, operate a cocaine trafficking ring, according to reports.

Culmer, 37, was charged with "conspiracy to distribute cocaine and fraud in connection with computer use," according to a press release from the U.S. Attorney's office.

She was hired by Montgomery County Police in July, 2003 and, according to the affidavit, used her privileges as an officer to access databases for information about her fiance and his "drug associates" between August, 2008, and September, 2009, reports CBS affiliate WUSA.

The affidavit alleges Culmer made computer inquiries on cars registered to a drug customer's girlfriend. The customer reportedly owed her fiance money. A few months afterward, the customer reported to police in Pennsylvania that the cars were vandalized and later became arson targets, according to WUSA.

The affidavit states Culmer accepted money from her fiance, including $30,000 in drug proceeds, to purchase houses in her name. According to the criminal complaint, she also received gifts from him and an engagement ring worth around $100,000, the station reported.

If convicted, she faces up to 20 years for the conspiracy charges and 10 years in prison for the fraud charges.

Culmer is expected to make her next court appearance Friday.