FERNDALE, Wash. — Charges against former Ferndale Police officer Michael Langton were dropped today, Monday, February 6th, in Whatcom County Superior Court.
Court records showed a charge of 2nd degree child molestation had been dismissed and a posted bond of $40,000 exonerated. Details were not immediately available.
While reason for the dismissal was not been made available, evidence to be produced during the discovery phase was continually being requested by defense counsel up through the latest hearing in late December.
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Click for more informationA press release from the defense counsel announcing the dismissal said, “This came after completion of the investigation, and review of evidence gathered by law enforcement.” It added, “We are thankful that Whatcom County was willing to take a close look at the evidence and ultimately made the right decision to dismiss this charge in the interest of justice.” The press release was accompanied by the signed order of dismissal. The dismissal was “without prejudice” meaning charges could be brought again at a future date.
Langton was arrested at his Blaine residence July 26, 2022 and initially charged with suspicion of 2nd degree attempted child molestation. He posted a $40,000 bond on August 1, 2022.
This story was updated later in the day with details from the defense counsel’s press release.