Montgomery, Ala. – A former Montgomery Police Department officer was convicted this week of violating a woman’s constitutional right to bodily integrity while responding to a shoplifting call. U.S. Attorney Thomas Govan announced that a federal jury found 32‑year‑old Markelle Jaquan Cox guilty on four counts of deprivation of rights under color of law and three counts of obstruction of justice.

Details of the incident

According to court records, on October 20, 2023 Cox responded to a shoplifting report at a department store on Eastern Boulevard. During the investigation he handcuffed the victim, escorted her to his patrol vehicle, and then engaged in unlawful sexual contact, touching intimate areas of her body, some of which occurred under her clothing. After removing the handcuffs, Cox forced the victim to touch him.

The victim, who does not speak English, was asked by Cox to use a translation app to solicit sexual activity. He then directed her to unlock her phone so he could add his phone number before allowing her to leave. The woman called 911 and later filed a complaint at the police headquarters.

Evidence and investigation

The Montgomery Police Department opened an immediate internal investigation. Body‑camera footage corroborated the victim’s account, and a search of both phones confirmed the added phone number and the use of the translation app. Despite being presented with this evidence, Cox continued to deny any wrongdoing.

Legal consequences

Cox faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled in the coming months.

The case underscores the importance of holding law‑enforcement officials accountable when they abuse their authority and violate the constitutional protections afforded to every citizen, regardless of language ability.

Original reporting: Alabama News Network — read the source article.