Former WakeMed and Morrisville police officer arrested on felony child sex charges
A WakeMed police officer has been arrested on child sex charges in Johnston County for an alleged incident in 2022 when he worked for the Morrisville Police Department.
Chad Penland, 47, of Angier, faces felony charges of statutory sex offense with a child under the age of 16 and indecent liberties with a child for an incident police say occurred on Feb. 6, 2022.
He turned himself in Monday on the charges, which allegedly involved a 15-year-old girl, according to ABC, The News & Observer’s newsgathering partner.
Penland has worked for WakeMed Campus Police since 2023 and was suspended “immediately upon notification of the criminal charges and arrest,” a WakeMed spokesperson said.
“WakeMed is deeply committed to providing our patients with the highest quality care possible in a safe and supportive environment,” the spokesperson said. “While we understand these alleged offenses did not take place at WakeMed, we have zero tolerance for any conduct or behavior that threatens the safety and well-being of any member of our community. It does not reflect or define the incredible work of the more than 12,800 employees who deliver health and healing to our patients every day.”
Penland also worked for WakeMed as a law enforcement officer from 2014 to 2018 before serving as an officer for the Morrisville Police Department from 2018 to 2023.
The Morrisville Police Department had no knowledge of any allegations against Penland during his time there and he left in 2023 under “voluntary circumstances,” a department spokesperson said Tuesday.
Penland appeared in Johnston County court on Monday. He will next appear in court on July 30.
This story was originally published July 14, 2026 at 3:09 PM.
