Hempstead officials claim Nassau County District Attorney Madeline Singas is unfairly targeting the village.

Recent corruption scandals have taken down six Hempstead officers in 3 1/2 years, with charges ranging from bribery to tampering with public records. The latest indictment alleges Hempstead Police Chief Paul Johnson made traffic tickets disappear in exchange for a promotion to top cop.

MORE: Investigators: Hempstead police chief, 3 others part of ticket fixing scandal

Bishop William Watson says Singas is "picking us off one by one." He says he stands by the chief.

And Bishop Phillip Elliott adds: "Every African-American who lifts up his head, is about to embark upon a legacy, is taken down, is destroyed."

Johnson pleaded not guilty to tampering with public records, grand larceny and other charges. His attorney says he's confident Johnson will be vindicated.

Singas says the indictments stem from an investigation she launched because of community complaints about corruption and abuse of power in the village police department. She says the residents deserve a village government and police force worthy of their trust.