One day after three Philadelphia police officers were arrested in an alleged steroids ring, area police leaders agreed that steroid use has become an unshakable, illegal vice among some badge-wearers who believe bulking up will give them a physical and psychological edge in crime-fighting, reports the Philadelphia Daily News. “It’s something that you have to be aware of, especially if you have a younger department, because a lot of the officers want to enhance their physique, which they think will enhance their ability to do the job,” said Upper Darby Police Superintendent Michael Chitwood.
The three cops collared this week for allegedly selling and distributing steroids didn’t admit using the muscle-boosters when they appeared in federal court. If appearance is any indication, they’re their own best customers: Detective Keith Gidelson, 34, and Officer Joseph McIntyre, 36, strode into court with bulging biceps bursting from their T-shirts, while Officer George Sambuca, 25, opted for a long-sleeve T-shirt that hugged his stocky frame and flaunted his bulky biceps. Most departments don’t routinely test for steroids when they screen new recruits for drugs or randomly drug-test officers.