Asst. police chief allegedly sold fake moonshine to minors

Sterlington Assistant Police Chief Todd Newton has been indicted in Louisiana in connection with an investigation into the sale of fake “moonshine” to minors from August 2011 to March 2012.

The News Star reports that the beverages were a mixture of Everclear grain alcohol and another high-proof alcohol brand called Diesel, both of which have an extremely high alcohol content. According to a news release by the 4th Judicial District Attorney’s office, Newton represented the concoction to buyers as “moonshine.”

Newton also allegedly threatened the minors with physical harm if they informed authorities about his activities.

Newton was charged with one count of intimidating witnesses, unlawful sales to persons younger than 21, unlawful purchase of alcoholic beverages by persons on behalf of persons younger than 21 and contributing to the delinquency of juveniles.

Sterlington Police Chief Barry Bonner said Newton resigned his position following the indictment. While noting that an indictment doesn't indicate guilt, Bonner said it was the "correct and moral" thing to do.