TOLEDO, Ohio – An internal affairs investigation into former Toledo police officer Makinnah Billegas concluded with her resignation on Oct. 28. The probe uncovered three separate incidents in which Billegas allowed a convicted felon to drive her patrol car, exposing police equipment and a loaded firearm.
Background of the incidents
Billegas admitted in the investigation that she used personal connections to aid a family member. In the first incident she ran her child’s father’s information to help him obtain a warrant.
The remaining two incidents involved James Moore, a man Billegas met on social media and later dated. Moore pleaded guilty in 2013 to attempted robbery and involuntary manslaughter.
Moore behind the wheel
Police stopped Moore while he was driving Billegas’ patrol car on two occasions. During the first stop officers discovered Billegas’ duty belt in the trunk. In the second stop a loaded handgun was found in the glove compartment.
Billegas told investigators she was unaware of Moore’s criminal history. When asked about the specifics of his convictions, she replied, “I still don’t know in detail what exactly he got in trouble for.” When probed about whether his past involved a firearm, she answered, “A little bit, yes,” and added, “I have a suspicion of that, yes.”
Attempt to mitigate the situation
According to the internal‑affairs interview, Billegas was at work when Moore was stopped. She called the officer who pulled Moore over and asked, “If there’s anything you can do, can you not take my gun? You know that it was an honest mistake on my end, and I messed up.”
The investigator noted that Billegas was seeking to have the incident “swept under the rug,” a request that raised serious concerns about accountability and public‑safety standards.
Resignation and pending charges
Billegas submitted her resignation letter to the Toledo police chief, describing the episode as “more than a learning moment” and acknowledging that the situation had become a “nightmare” that did not reflect the person she wants to be.
She remains internally charged with willful violation of the law and conduct unbecoming of an officer. The Toledo Patrolmen’s Association has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Implications for the department
The case highlights the importance of strict adherence to department policy regarding personal relationships, background checks, and the handling of police equipment. It also underscores the need for transparent internal‑affairs processes to maintain public trust in law‑enforcement agencies.
City officials have not announced any immediate policy changes, but the incident is likely to prompt a review of protocols related to off‑duty conduct and the use of department property.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
