Ruleville Police Officer Arrested for Extortion During Traffic Stop

Gulfport, MS – A Clarksdale man was arrested yesterday in Gulfport, Mississippi, on criminal charges related to his alleged extortion of an illegal alien.

According to court documents, Antonio Artez Wade, 36, an officer with the Ruleville Police Department, conducted a traffic stop of “Victim 1” on September 17, 2025. Upon learning that Victim 1 lacked identification or legal status, Wade indicated that he could “help” the victim in exchange for money. The victim subsequently paid Wade’s demand of $2500. Wade has been charged with extortion under 18 U.S.C. § 1951, blackmail under 18 U.S.C. § 873, and deprivation of rights under color of law in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 242.

“No traffic stop should ever turn into a shakedown,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. “Corruption of the kind alleged here undermines public safety and trust in law enforcement, and it will simply not be tolerated.”

"Homeland Security Investigations is committed to holding accountable those who exploit their authority and undermine public trust,” stated HIS Assistant Special Agent in Charge Matthew Reidell. “This case involves serious violations, including extortion under the Hobbs Act, blackmail, and deprivation of rights under color of law. Such actions not only harm vulnerable individuals but also undermine the integrity of our immigration system. HSI will continue working with our partners to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law."

“The arrest of Ruleville Police Officer Antonio Wade on charges of extortion is deeply troubling and stands in stark contrast of the values and standards expected of those who wear the badge,” said Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. “Our agency, in coordination with our federal and local law enforcement partners, will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that any officer who violates the public’s trust is held fully accountable.”

“Officer Wade violated the trust between law enforcement and the people they pledged to protect,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “This abuse of power will not be tolerated. Thank you to our federal and state partners for your commitment to restoring confidence in our criminal justice and immigration systems. The Attorney General’s Office looks forward to our day in State court.”

If convicted, Wade faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Wade is currently being held without bond pending a detention hearing. Separate state charges may be pending.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert J. Mims is prosecuting the case.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.