Barry County Prosecuting Attorney Julie Nakfoor-Pratt announced today that charges have been issued against Lowell Police Chief Steven Bukala, according to a news release from the prosecutor’s office.

Bukala is charged with five counts of unauthorized use of the Law Enforcement Information Network, (LEIN) a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 93 days or a fine of not more than $500, or both, the release said.  Nakfoor-Pratt was appointed special prosecutor for the Kent County Prosecutor, who recused himself due to a conflict.

Bukala turned himself in to authorities today; his arraignment will be set at a later date. 

He is represented by Attorneys Terry Tobias and Brett Naumcheff.  Bukala is presumed innocent until proven guilty. As with all criminal defendants, the charges issued are accusations until, and if, the defendant is convicted, the release concluded.