North Charleston Deputy Police Chief Under Investigation for Allegations of Unethical Conduct

North Charleston Police Deputy Chief Accused of Unethical Conduct

In the lively city of North Charleston, South Carolina, recent developments have brought attention to a serious allegation against Deputy Chief of Support Services, Karen Cordray. She stands accused of unethical conduct following an incident back in February that involved both a police sergeant and City Councilman Jerome Heyward.

A Troubling Incident Unfolds

The story begins on a night out in February when a police sergeant responded to a noise complaint at the Montague Room, a hotspot now known as El Patio Caribbean Restaurant and Lounge. Just before midnight on February 24, the sergeant arrived to find a DJ playing music that was evidently too loud for the neighbors’ liking. The initial aim was simple: get the DJ to lower the volume in compliance with city law. But things took a turn when Councilman Heyward stepped in.

According to the sergeant’s report, Heyward insisted that he would take care of the situation, but the music continued to blare. Frustrated, the sergeant made an effort to remedy the noise issue but was met with a surprising twist when Heyward called Deputy Chief Cordray. Heyward, reportedly, handed his phone to the sergeant, who then had a conversation with Cordray regarding the messy situation.

Body Camera Footage Sparks Concerns

The body camera footage, which was later released, revealed some troubling remarks from Councilman Heyward, including calling the officer “boy.” This disrespectful language prompted further scrutiny of the interaction, leading to the sergeant reaching out to the city’s Human Resources department on April 16. The sergeant accused Cordray of asking him to alter his incident report, urging him to omit some “crucial details” about the encounter with Heyward.

What Happened After?

In the wake of the sergeant’s claims, Deputy Chief Cordray refuted the allegations, denying that she ever requested he change his report. However, a detailed investigative summary, authorized by the City of North Charleston’s Human Resources Employee Relations Manager, Misty Watson, outlined the circumstances and communications following that February night. It highlighted how Cordray was supposed to inform the chief of police, the legal team, and the mayor concerning the incident, a commitment she allegedly did not fulfill in a timely manner.

The Investigation’s Findings

Despite the denial from Deputy Chief Cordray, the investigation conducted by the mayor’s office revealed that she did not make any alterations to the sergeant’s report. Special Assistant to the Mayor, Dave Cheatle, confirmed the findings in a report dated August 28. He mentioned his intention to meet with the sergeant to commend him on his handling of the situation and to address Councilman Heyward directly about his behavior during the incident.

The Aftermath and Future Implications

The North Charleston Police Department has chosen not to comment on the allegations or the ongoing investigation, and the city has also declined to provide any statements when approached for information. Meanwhile, a cloud of uncertainty looms over Deputy Chief Cordray, especially as she is currently one of the finalists for the position of Chief of Police in North Charleston.

As this situation continues to unfold, it raises broader questions about ethics and accountability within the police department, as well as the implications of public officials’ behavior towards law enforcement.

North Charleston residents will have their eyes peeled as this story develops, hoping for a resolution that restores trust and integrity within their community.