Charlie Sheen at Center of Police-Escort Scandal
Charlie Sheen is at the center of a police-escort scandal as a former Washington, D.C. police commander has threatened to file a whistle-blower lawsuit.
The officer, Hilton Burton, claims that his decision to provide an escort for Charlie Sheen led to his demotion, according to Entertainment Weekly. He became a victim of the Charlie Sheen vs. Two and a Half Men media craze in 2011 after Sheen publicized his high-profile police escort.
In April 2011, Sheen arrived in D.C. for a "Violent Torpedo of Truth" and was escorted by Hurton's special operations division that usually escorts visiting dignitaries. The former Two and Half Men star posted pictures of the police car, which reached up to 80 mph during the ride on Twitter.
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"N car with Police escort in front and rear! Driving like someone's about to deliver a baby! Cop car lights #Spinning!" Sheen posted along with a photo of the speedometer reading 80 mph.
The tweets surfaced at the height of Sheen's media rants and public battle with Two and a Half Men producer, Chuck Lorre. After garnering much publicity, Burton was transferred to DCPD's medical services branch and demoted two ranks.
Burton claims the decision came down from Chief Cathy Lanier, who didn't appreciate the media attention. He says that she was also upset by his contention celebrity escorts had been provided during the years she headed the special operations division, according to Reuters.
He is suing for his former rank to be restored, plus back pay, benefits, and damages.
Lainer responded in a statement, Thursday, saying that Burton was transferred based on the recommendation of a supervisor.
"A Review of command decisions, including several critical incidents," Lainer said was the reason Burton was transferred.
