Fort Smith Police Department Faces An Internal Investigation
By: Allison Woods
Updated: February 29, 2008
Fort Smith Police Chief Kevin Lindsey says two officers were placed on administrative leave Thursday morning.
"We have initiated an internal investigation on two majors in the department. The one major, Steve Howard has been demoted from the position as major to captain and a captain has been promoted in his place. Dean Pitts who is now the major in the patrol division" said Chief Kevin Lindsey.
Major Jeff Barrows has also been placed on administrative leave.
Chief Lindsey refused to discuss the reason for the suspensions, only saying the officers are being investigated by the Office of Professional Standards.
Several rumors are flying around the department, concerning the suspensions and other topics. Because of all the rumors the department held an emergency meeting to show support for Chief Lindsey and his decision to suspend the officers.
"Chief Lindsey is in the ultimate spotlight. You know being the chief of police and hes doing a great job and thats what we want to relate to the city administrator and to the city directors. That we support him." said Cpl. Wendall Sampson.
Chief lindsey says the details of the suspensions may be released once the investigation is over but, not any sooner.
