RESOLUTION NO. RS2000-337

A resolution requesting the Metropolitan Chief of Police to expeditiously resolve complaints against the Police Officers.

WHEREAS, when complaints are made against members of the Metropolitan Police Department for violations of rules of the Civil Service Commission or the Metro Police Department, these officers may be placed on administrative leave with pay pending investigation and disposition of the complaint; and

WHEREAS, a number of police officers are being placed on administrative leave for extended periods of time in excess of six months; and

WHEREAS, such practices of placing officers on extended leave delays the administration of due process by not disposing of the complaint, and could result in harm to officers who are exonerated; and

WHEREAS, to promote the safety, health and welfare of the Metropolitan Government it is appropriate that the Chief of Police handle complaints against police officers by resolving violations in an expeditious manner.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:

SECTION 1. That the Metropolitan County Council hereby goes on record as requesting the Chief of Police to act on complaints against police officers for violating rules of the Civil Service Commission or the Police Department in an expeditious manner and that such officers who are under investigation and are placed on administrative leave with pay should not have such complaints unresolved for a six month period. It is the intention of the Metro Council not to suggest to the Chief of Police as to how to conduct investigations, however, it is disruptive to the community and to the Police Department not to expeditiously resolve complaints against police officers.

SECTION 2. The Metropolitan Clerk is directed to send a certified copy of this Resolution to the Chief of Police and to the Mayor.

SECTION 3. That the Chief of Police and the Mayor are further requested to inform the Metropolitan Council of the feasibility and/or the actions taken in compliance with the request contained in Section 1 hereof, not later than sixty (60) days after the adoption of this Resolution.

SECTION 4. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.

Sponsored by: Lawrence Hart & Tony Derryberry