BRASELTON, Ga. (AP) — The police chief of a suburban Atlanta town finds himself in legal trouble, facing accusations of using city resources for personal misconduct. Michael Steffman, 49, was arrested after allegedly utilizing Braselton’s automated license plate recognition cameras to stalk and harass several individuals.

Steffman, who had served as Braselton’s police chief since April, has been part of the town’s police department since 2005. Braselton, located approximately 45 miles (73 kilometers) northeast of Atlanta, has seen rapid growth and now boasts a population of around 17,000 residents.

On Wednesday, Steffman stepped down from his position shortly before the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) announced his arrest. The GBI charged him with stalking, making harassing communications, abusing the automated license plate recognition systems, and breaching his oath of office.

Following his arrest, Steffman was held at the Jackson County jail but was later released on a $13,000 bail. The GBI has yet to confirm if Steffman has legal representation, as they did not respond to an email inquiry regarding his defense counsel.

The investigation was initiated at the request of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office several months ago. However, authorities have not disclosed the duration of the alleged offenses or the number of individuals affected by Steffman’s actions.

“The town is disappointed by the circumstances and the charges and respect that the legal process will take its course,” Braselton Town Manager Jennifer Scott said in a statement. “At the same time, we appreciate that these matters require the former Chief’s full personal attention and appreciate his years of service.”