A third party has investigated the Lawrenceville Police Department over multiple internal complaints regarding sexual harassment, hostile work environment and improper use of city property.
A press release from the City of Lawrenceville states city administration was first made aware of the complaints in October 2021. The city attorney immediately engaged a third party to investigate the claims. The independent report was given to the city attorney following its completion.
Decisions related to personnel matters were finalized on Jan. 21, 2022, in consultation with the city attorney.
Chief of Police Tim Wallis has been issued a 10-day suspension without pay, according to the release. Likewise, the assistant chief of police was given documented verbal counseling.
A police captain declined to be interviewed during the investigation, and later announced his resignation from the city and retirement from POST.
The city is also requiring all police department employees and city staff to complete mandatory in-person training. A city-wide emphasis on personnel policy addressing workplace behavior is also being enforced. Finally, the city will establish a city-wide communication process for the submission of confidential employee complaints.
“I was disturbed by the findings of the investigation and issued penalties to the appropriate employees, including a requirement for individual training,” City Manager Chuck Warbington said in a prepared statement. “The City of Lawrenceville prides itself as an inclusive and safe work place for all employees. The workplace culture revealed through this investigation did not meet the standards of excellence expected of all departments in the City. This is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
Wallis has been on a medical work-from-home status since Dec. 13, 2021, for unrelated health issues.
"The city is committed to moving forward in a positive manner," the release reads.
