Charlotte, North Carolina, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Dylan Lineberger, a 33-year-old ex-police officer from Charlotte, pleaded guilty to misdemeanor first-degree harassment, avoiding prison with credit for time served. His legal troubles began after a pattern of harassment against his ex-girlfriend, including threats and stalking. He faces additional civil lawsuits from the victim, highlighting serious issues surrounding domestic harassment.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Dylan Lineberger, a 33-year-old former Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer, has avoided prison time after pleading guilty to misdemeanor first-degree harassment in York County criminal court. Lineberger was sentenced to time served, benefiting from a permanent restraining order, meaning he will not serve any additional prison time. Visiting Judge Keith Kelly suspended the maximum prison sentence of three years and credited Lineberger with 355 days for wearing a GPS monitor while awaiting trial.
Lineberger’s legal troubles began when he was arrested in Rock Hill, South Carolina, in late October 2024, after engaging in a pattern of harassment against his ex-girlfriend while carrying a firearm. Following his arrest, he was placed on administrative leave by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) and officially left the department in April 2025. The victim of Lineberger’s harassment has remained unnamed due to safety concerns and expressed fear during court proceedings.
The relationship between Lineberger and the victim ended in September 2024 when she requested no further contact, leading to an escalation in harassment. Incidents that began in North Carolina included sending unwanted texts, making repeated phone calls, and presenting unwanted gifts to the victim. Lineberger’s harassment intensified when he vandalized the victim’s vehicle in October 2024 and subsequently sent threatening text messages to her current boyfriend, threatening violence if he saw them together. He claimed to have access to his police-issued firearm and over 30 other weapons at that time.
Lineberger’s behavior included stalking the victim to a grocery store, where he followed her in a rented car and attempted to make contact. He was eventually arrested in Lincoln County, North Carolina, after being extradited to South Carolina. At the time of his arrest, he was released on a $10,000 bail while monitored by a GPS device. Lineberger has no prior criminal record and is currently employed in a maintenance position.
In addition to the criminal case, a civil lawsuit filed by the victim remains pending. This lawsuit alleges stalking and emotional distress, citing instances of surveillance and attempts to hack into her email accounts. The civil lawsuit also includes allegations of dangerous behavior by Lineberger, with the victim seeking punitive and compensatory damages. She has also obtained a restraining order against him in North Carolina, further complicating his legal standing.
It is important to note that the criminal case concerning Lineberger and the civil suit filed by the victim are separate legal matters, each addressing different facets of the situation.
Background Context
Lineberger’s actions have highlighted issues surrounding domestic harassment and the legal protections available to victims. The situation underscores how relationships can lead to potentially dangerous outcomes when one party feels threatened and unsupported. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking help and legal protection when faced with such circumstances.
FAQ
Who is Dylan Lineberger?
Dylan Lineberger is a 33-year-old former Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer who pleaded guilty to misdemeanor first-degree harassment.
What was Lineberger’s sentence?
Lineberger was sentenced to time served with a permanent restraining order and will not serve any additional prison time.
When was he arrested?
Lineberger was arrested in Rock Hill in late October 2024 after harassing his ex-girlfriend while carrying a gun.
What kind of harassment did he commit?
Lineberger engaged in unwanted text messaging, phone calls, and gift-giving, vandalized the victim’s vehicle, and threatened her current boyfriend.
What are the civil suit allegations against Lineberger?
The victim’s civil lawsuit alleges stalking and emotional distress, with claims of surveillance and attempts to hack her email.
Key Features of the Article
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Defendant | Dylan Lineberger |
| Age | 33 |
| Charges | Misdemeanor first-degree harassment |
| Sentence | Time served and permanent restraining order |
| Victim’s response | An unnamed woman expressing fear during court proceedings |
| Nature of harassment | Unwanted communications and threats |
| Civil lawsuit | Pursuing punitive and compensatory damages |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Delta Man Charged with Felony Strangulation in Domestic Dispute
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online
- Wikipedia: Harassment
- WBTV
- Google Search: Domestic Harassment
- WSOC TV
- Google Scholar: Harassment Law
- QC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Justice System
- WIS TV
- Google News: Charlotte Mecklenburg Police
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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