Former Columbia police officer accused of distributing steroids

A former Columbia police officer faces drug distribution and weapon charges for allegedly selling steroids in 2016.

A grand jury in Boone County indicted Gamal Castile on Feb. 2 with three crimes, including drug distribution, drug possession and unlawful possession of a weapon. The indictment claims Castile gave another man trenbolone on Oct. 7, 2016. Castile also allegedly possessed oxymetholone. Both are anabolic steroids, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration, and are considered schedule 3 controlled substances.

Castile worked for the Columbia Police Department, according to special prosecutor Risa Perkins in the Callaway County prosecutor’s office. He was one of the first police officers to serve in the Community Outreach Unit, focusing on the central city neighborhood.

Perkins said that the Columbia Police Department conducted the investigation, but would not specify when the investigation started because the case is ongoing.

CPD spokeswoman Bryana Larimer confirmed that Castile did work for the department, but deferred on specifics of the investigation back to Perkins.

Castile was arrested at his initial court appearance on Feb. 5, according to online court records. He posted a $5,000 bond that day. A pre-trial conference is scheduled for April 23 in front of Judge Jeff Harris, with a jury trial happening May 15.

Castile’s attorney, Richard Hicks, did not return an email seeking comment.