SOUTHPORT, N.C. – A news conference on Thursday afternoon provided more details about the arrest of Southport Police Chief Gary Smith.

• Smith was arrested after a long-term investigation by the SBI and the FBI.
• Smith is facing at least one count of conspiracy to obtain property by false pretense.
• Smith and Lieutenant Mike Simmons were driving for a local trucking company while claiming duty hours at the Southport Police Department.

The Brunswick County District Attorney’s office said Smith was arrested after a long-term investigation by the SBI and the FBI.

According to jail records, Smith is facing numerous charges including at least one count of conspiracy to obtain property by false pretense and obstruction of justice.

The investigation revealed that Smith and Lieutenant Mike Simmons were driving for a local trucking company while claiming duty hours at the Southport Police Department.

According to the SBI, multiple search warrants were conducted today at the police department, town hall and the trucking company.

The two are suspended with paid leave and the entire Southport Police Department is on administrative paid leave.

The Brunswick County Sheriff's Office will now take over law enforcement duties until further notice.