Dover officer resigns after internal investigation

The Dover Police Department has completed an internal investigation into disciplinary violations involving Patrolman Ryan Porter Jan. 21.

Porter was found sleeping at the Dover police station Jan. 21. He was taken for a breathalyzer test, which he failed.

Following the conclusion of the investigation, the city said it accepted Porter’s resignation, effective March 24.

However, a March 23 pre-disciplinary conference report signed by Director of Public Safety Robert W. Everett stated the city had determined the appropriate disciplinary action was discharge and that Porter’s employment was terminated effective March 24 at 7 a.m.

The letter said the report followed an internal investigation by the Dover Police Department and a pre-disciplinary conference held March 17 in accordance with sections 40.1 and 40.2 of the collective bargaining agreement. It said the chief of police and the city concluded the allegations of misconduct outlined in a March 10 notification letter “did occur.”

The letter also directed Porter to contact Chief Paul Bantum to schedule the return of city property, retrieve personal items from his locker and complete any other business related to the termination.

In its media release, the city said it acted in accordance with the terms of its collective bargaining agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police Dover Division and Ohio Revised Code.

The matter remains under review by an external law enforcement agency and a special prosecutor. The special prosecutor will determine whether any criminal charges are warranted.

Because the matter is being handled by an outside jurisdiction, the city said it is unable to comment further on the outcome of that investigation.

The Dover administration said it remains committed to ensuring the safety of residents and upholding public trust.

City officials said they do not condone or find acceptable the actions that prompted the internal investigation and will continue to expect integrity and accountability from all city employees.

Porter served with the Dover Police Department for 13 years.