Two former San Diego police officers each were sentenced Friday to three years in prison after pleading guilty to stealing and selling drugs while on duty.

Jennifer Charpentier and Bryce Charpentier, who are married, admitted that they conspired to burglarize homes where they had spotted prescription drugs, particularly painkillers.

Bryce Charpentier, 32, was a six-year veteran of the police department. Jennifer Charpentier, 41, was an 18-year veteran.

Both were suspended after being arrested and resigned after pleading guilty.


“It is reprehensible that these two former officers made the terrible decision to betray and discredit our badge and our noble profession,” Police Chief Shelley Zimmerman said at a news conference with Dist. Atty. Bonnie Dumanis and Sheriff Bill Gore after the sentencing.

The Charpentiers each faced a possible seven-year sentence.

Superior Court Judge Kathleen Lewis said she took into account the fact that the two were good police officers “until they fell into addiction.”

During sentencing, Jennifer Charpentier wept and Bryce Charpentier apologized to the public and police department.


The two had exchanged emails while on duty about homes that could be burglarized, Dumanis said. No plea bargain was reached and the sentencing was up to the judge, she said.

“This is a somber day for all of us,” Dumanis said.

tony.perry@latimes.com