An off-duty Decherd police officer who was arrested in a Sept. 28 drug-sting operation is free on a $3,500 bond with a Dec. 11 date to appear in court.

A press release from the Decherd Police Department identified Dustin Cook as the officer who was allegedly attempting to illegally purchase prescription drugs. He is charged with simple possession and casual exchange of a schedule II substance.

The press release said the arrest stemmed from an internal investigation that originated from a tip. During the probe by Chief Kenneth Griffin and Sgt. Investigator Greg King, evidence was found to substantiate the allegation, and a decision was made to initiate a controlled buy to confirm the information, the press release said.

The buy took place within Decherd city limits, and Cook was arrested by Griffin and King when Cook allegedly received the narcotics.

Griffin terminated Cook’s employment with the department at the time of the arrest, the press release said, adding that Cook was not on duty at the time.

Assistant Chief Paul Bennett and Master Sgt. Tyler Womack assisted in the operation, reports said.

The Police Department included the following statement in the press release, summing up its policy on employees and narcotics:

“We feel officers must be held to a higher standard and obey the laws they are sworn to uphold. The Decherd Police Department has a zero-tolerance drug policy, but there are resources to help employees who find themselves going down the wrong path.

“Dustin Cook never reached out for assistance and had passed pre-employment and random drug screenings. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance-abuse issues, we strongly encourage you to seek help to escape that addiction.”