Dover officials investigating potential police disciplinary violation

The city of Dover has received multiple media requests for comment regarding a potential disciplinary violation involving a Dover police officer Jan. 21.

City officials said the matter is being treated as serious and is under investigation. The officer was removed from duty immediately and is on leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation.

The police chief, city administration and the law director are coordinating the internal investigation, according to the city. The city also has engaged an outside law enforcement agency to conduct an independent investigation to determine whether criminal action should be taken.

A special prosecutor has been appointed to review the results of the independent investigation and determine whether criminal charges will be filed, the city said.

City officials said they are acting in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police during the internal process. The officer will remain on leave pending the conclusion of the internal investigation, at which point disciplinary action may be imposed.

The city said the independent criminal investigation will run concurrently with the city’s disciplinary process.

“The City of Dover administration holds paramount the safety of the citizens of Dover and the integrity of the internal operations of its police department,” the city said.