This morning, the Overland Park Police Department received notification about a Facebook post, reportedly made by one of our officers’ from his personal Facebook account.
“I immediately initiated an investigation into the officer’s actions and requested it be completed in a timely manner,” said Police Chief Francis Donchez Jr.
During the investigation, by our Professional Standards Unit, we learned our officer did in fact make this post, Donchez said. It was obvious that our ...officer did not meet the standards of professionalism for the Overland Park Police Department. Overland Park has terminated the officer, effective immediately.
“This quick action demonstrates our commitment to our core values including integrity and respect,” Donchez said.
“I want to assure our community, and those outside our community, that our highest priority is the safety and welfare of the citizens of Overland Park, and the men and women who protect everyone. I will continue to hold the employees of the Overland Park Police Department accountable for its actions on and off-duty.
“Finally, I want to publicly apologize to those affected by our officer’s personal actions. His actions do not represent the Overland Park Police Department in anyway and no one should be subjected to any type of discrimination or this kind of behavior,” the Chief said.
A criminal investigation is underway as a result of information discovered during the course of the personnel investigation.
Chief Of Police
Francis Donchez Jr