Sean "Bobby" Lineberger is a North Carolina Highway Patrolman. He has been with the NCHP since 2007, and he works with Troop F in Hickory, North Carolina.

On 05/24/11, District Court Judge Fonvielle issued a Domestic Violence Protective Order requiring Trooper Lineberger to stay away from Erin Lee Banks. According to Court documents, Trooper Lineberger engaged in numerous stalking activities after Ms. Banks ended their prior relationship.

Most concerning from the perspective of the NCHP is the allegations that Trooper Lineberge utilized his patrol car to stalk Ms. Banks, ran license plates of individuals with whom she spent time, and employed the use of another patrolman to stop Ms. Banks on at least one occasion.

As a Charlotte criminal defense attorney, I immediately wonder whether other individuals were targeted by NCHP troopers at the request of Mr. Lineberger. For instance, did NCHP arrest any acquaintances of Ms. Banks for DWI where the initial stop of the vehicle occurred under false pretenses? Obviously, this issue should be investigated. Any such case, would clearly have substantial legal issues.

Trooper Lineberger has been placed on administrative duty effective 05/19/11, pending the result of an internal affairs investigation. I would note that while the Protective Order was granted, it is important to remember that each matter is separate and independent. I'll be curious to see the outcome of this matter, particularly in light of the NCHP's recent difficulties.

CharlotteObserver.com, Trooper ordered to stay away from ex-girlfriend, 05/27/11