Clanton Police Chief Brian Stilwell was arrested Tuesday for “misappropriation of funds” related to a local Fraternal Order of Police annual Christmas fundraiser, according to a press release issued Tuesday evening by Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

State Bureau of Investigations, ALEA’s investigative division, in conjunction with investigators with the 19th Circuit District Attorney’s Office, arrested Stilwell, 44, following an investigation into the misappropriation of funds related to Fraternal Order of Police Smith/Dale Lodge 31’s annual Operation Santa Claus effort.

Stilwell was charged with one count first-degree theft and one count fraudulent use of a credit card, according to the release.

“Other potential charges will be presented to the grand jury after further investigation,” the release stated.

Stilwell was booked into the Autauga County Jail.

SBI Special Agents request information from anyone who has made monetary donations to the lodge for Operation Santa Claus during the past four years.

The effort was established to raise money and purchase gifts for children.

Anyone with information should call the SBI tip line at 800-392-8011.

Those who were members of the lodge during the past four years are also asked to contact SBI.

No further information was immediately available.