The Birmingham Police Department confirmed a former officer was arrested Thursday in connection with an incident that took place Sunday, July 16, on Third Avenue West. Authorities identified the suspect as Darrion Lapsley, 26, of Birmingham. He has been charged with first-degree sexual assault.
Arrest, booking and bond
Lapsley, who began working for the Birmingham police force in 2025, is no longer employed by the department, officials said. He was taken into custody early Thursday and booked into the Jefferson County Jail. Court records show he was held on a $15,000 bond.
Department response and investigation
Police said the investigation that led to the arrest began while Lapsley was still employed by the department. Officials have not released details about the nature of the alleged assault or the events that prompted the probe.
"The Birmingham Police Department is committed to thoroughly investigating allegations of misconduct and holding individuals accountable regardless of their position or profession," the department said in a statement. "Law enforcement officers are entrusted with serving the public with integrity, professionalism and accountability. All members of the Birmingham Police Department are held to the highest standards of conduct, and any employee who violates the law or betrays the public’s trust will be held accountable."
Police declined to say whether Lapsley was on duty at the time of the incident, saying they were taking steps to "preserve the integrity of the investigation and limit disclosure of more information in an effort to protect the victim."
What this means locally
The arrest raises immediate questions for community members seeking transparency about the conduct of people who serve in uniform. Local residents and advocacy groups often look to the department for clarity on how investigations of current or former officers are handled, particularly when the alleged conduct involves sexual assault.
- Suspect: Darrion Lapsley, 26, of Birmingham
- Charge: First-degree sexual assault
- Incident date: Sunday, July 16
- Arrest/booked: Early Thursday, Jefferson County Jail
- Bond: $15,000
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Employment with BPD | Started in 2025; now a former employee |
| Location of incident | Third Avenue West, Birmingham |
As the case moves through the criminal justice system, prosecutors, defense attorneys and the courts will determine next steps for charging, arraignment and potential trial dates. The department's public statement underscores a commitment to accountability, but provided few specifics while the investigation is active. Community members seeking updates should monitor official Birmingham Police Department releases and Jefferson County court records for further information.
Reporting on matters that touch both public safety and public trust requires careful attention to verified facts. Officials asked that certain details be withheld now to protect the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of the alleged victim.
