A police officer was arrested at the Swap-O-Rama Flea market in Chicago for his involvement in the sale of pirated music, according to officials with the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).

Numerous complaints from local retailers prompted RIAA officials to investigate the sale of pirated Latin CDs and tapes at the Swap-O-Rama. Additional investigative work by the RIAA, the Chicago Police Department, and the Cook County States Attorney’s Office determined that a Chicago police officer was in charge of the location and was involved in number of those illicit sales.

“We’re very grateful for all the work of the Chicago police department and the Cook County State Attorney,” said Brad Buckles, Executive Vice President, Anti-Piracy, RIAA. “Illegally manufacturing and selling pirated CDs is a serious crime that harms the entire community of musicians, retailers, record labels and others who create music and bring it to the public. This arrest should send a clear and powerful message: no one, no matter who they are, gets a free pass if they traffic in music theft.”

“It’s especially important for someone like this to be arrested and held accountable,” added Buckles. “We don’t want an isolated example like this to tarnish the work and reputation of the hundreds of law enforcement agencies across the country who work diligently every day to protect the music community and legitimate retailers from theft.”

Charges are pending in the case. For more information, please call the Chicago Police Department.