DEA agents launched an investigation when a Fed-Ex employee at the Honolulu International Airport intercepted a suspicious package that contained eight marijuana plants on April 5.

"It's a little embarassing for me because I'm a former police officer and I didn't smell anything and see anything," said Wayne Autele.

Federal agents say Chu told them he "just works for Athena Lee and helps her carry things for the grow operation."

Court documents detail how Lee, before the arrest, was also carrying a "bag that contained approximately $12,000... in $2,000 bundles and rubber banded together."

The Honolulu Police Department said Officer Chu has been placed on leave without pay and his police powers have been removed.

"This is a very serious allegation, and we are cooperating with the DEA in its investigation," said Honoulu Police Department Chief of Police Louis Kealoha.  "The HPD has also initiated its own internal administrative investigation into the alleged activity."

"Any officer or civilian employee who violates the public trust by engaging in this type of activity should not be a part of the Honolulu Police Department," said Chief Kealoha.