By Jennifer P. Rendon
A 62-year-old sheriff was arrested in an entrapment operation on Sept. 12 for alleged robbery-extortion in Barangay Danao, City Proper, Iloilo City.
The suspect, identified only as “Louie,” a resident of Barangay Namocon, Tigbauan, is a sheriff at the Municipal Trial Court in the City of Passi.
He was accused of demanding money from a 46-year-old woman, identified as Rose, from Barangay Tanza Timawa, City Proper.
Rose, who is facing charges for violating Batas Pambansa Blg. 22 (the law penalizing the issuance of checks without sufficient funds), claimed that Louie demanded P50,000 to settle and dismiss her pending case.
Seeking help from the Iloilo City Police Station 1, Rose cooperated with authorities to set up an entrapment operation.
During the operation, Rose handed over P500 in marked money and P49,500 in fake “boodle” money to the suspect at a local bakeshop.
Louie placed the cash in his bag and issued an acknowledgment receipt, after which police moved in and arrested him.
Iloilo City Police Chief Colonel Kim Legada praised the arrest: “This arrest serves as a clear message that no one is above the law. We are committed to upholding justice and ensuring that those who betray the public’s trust are held accountable. Our priority is protecting the community from all forms of criminality, regardless of the position or influence of those involved.”
