When a high-ranking Atlanta police major and former union president crashes his car while driving under the influence, the consequences reveal how seriously internal accountability operates within one of the nation’s most scrutinized police departments.
Story Overview
- Major Kevin Knapp, former Atlanta police union president, arrested for DUI after crashing in Cobb County
- Atlanta Police Department swiftly demoted Knapp from major to captain following the September arrest
- The rare public demotion of a senior officer demonstrates internal discipline amid ongoing police accountability debates
- Knapp faces multiple charges including DUI, failure to maintain lane, and speeding
Leadership Standards Under the Microscope
Kevin Knapp’s fall from grace began on September 12th when Cobb County officers found him crashed on Old Stillsboro Road late at night. The arrest of any police officer draws attention, but Knapp’s senior rank and former union presidency amplified the scrutiny exponentially. His position required him to set departmental standards and maintain the public’s trust in law enforcement leadership.
The Atlanta Police Department faces constant evaluation of its internal accountability measures. When officers at Knapp’s level face criminal charges, the department’s response becomes a litmus test for its commitment to equal justice. The swift demotion suggests APD leadership recognizes that rank brings responsibility, not immunity from consequences.
Union Politics and Internal Dynamics
Knapp’s former role as union president adds complexity to his situation. Union leaders typically advocate for officer protections and due process rights, yet they must balance member advocacy with public accountability expectations. His dual role as both enforcer of standards and advocate for officers created inherent tensions that now play out in his personal crisis.
The demotion raises questions about internal department politics and whether former union connections influence disciplinary processes. APD’s decision to act decisively suggests they prioritized institutional credibility over any potential internal pressure to minimize consequences. This approach aligns with common-sense expectations that leaders face stricter accountability standards.
Accountability in Action
The rarity of public demotions for senior officers makes Knapp’s case particularly significant. Most police misconduct cases involving leadership positions result in quiet resignations or behind-the-scenes administrative moves. APD’s transparent approach demonstrates commitment to visible accountability, though critics may argue demotion alone insufficient for criminal behavior.
GA: Atlanta police major, former union president demoted after DUI arrest
Story by @taylor_rcrofthttps://t.co/ac8Uk3Kuyp— Cop Crime (@CopCrime) October 10, 2025
Off-duty conduct standards exist precisely because police officers carry public trust twenty-four hours daily. When that trust breaks down through criminal behavior, departments must act decisively to maintain legitimacy. The fact that Knapp retains employment at captain rank suggests APD balanced accountability with recognition of his service record, though some may question whether this strikes the appropriate balance.
Sources:
WSB-TV – Atlanta police major demoted following DUI arrest
