moreWesthampton Beach Police Chief Ray Dean will not follow orders handed down by the Village Board two weeks ago that demand information and records pertaining to the running of his police department, according to his attorney.
Four resolutions adopted by the board’s majority on March 4 interfere with ongoing investigations involving the Westhampton Beach Police Department, jeopardize the village’s possible defense regarding two lawsuits that could soon be filed by two previously suspended village police officers, and ignores and misinterprets village and civil service laws, according to a letter sent to the Village Board by Chief Dean’s attorney, Michael Axelrod of Certilman, Balin, Adler & Hyman, LLP, of East Meadow.
“As indicated, your actions are inappropriate and a violation of law and Chief Dean’s oath of office,” Mr. Axelrod wrote in his letter, which was dated March 12. “He will decline to follow your illegal resolutions.”
At several points in his six-page letter, Mr. Axelrod asks the board’s majority—Village Trustees Hank Tucker, Joan Levan and Jim Kametler—“what were you thinking?” when they introduced and approved the documents. Mr. Axelrod could not be immediately reached for comment.
On Tuesday, Mr. Tucker said the board has not yet discussed the letter, explaining that the four resolutions were passed because he, Ms. Levan and Mr. Kametler need the information they requested before deciding whether to hold disciplinary hearings for Officers Michael Bruetsch and Joseph Pesapane.
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Maybe it's me but when a public official starts hiding records that would seem to indicate it is time to go.
Total comments by Hambone: 71
Total comments by curious: 76
Total comments by sjd: 420
Total comments by CoweeDewey: 42
Total comments by CoweeDewey: 42
Or is there new "information?"
Total comments by Frank Wheeler: 696
Now the board wants to see records on how Dean ran the police department.
Lets see if they look at "JIM THE GUN"S" record when he was on this so-called police force. His miss-use of power over and over and why he was asked to retire instead of being fired.
So now you can all tell me why we need this poice department and this board.
Total comments by sjd: 420
Total comments by BCHBUM11968: 42
Total comments by Ebby: 68
Total comments by nellie: 319
Please add link to new article on Mr. Bishop resigning.
Total comments by PBR: 431
Total comments by nellie: 319
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