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Residents call for another investigation into Chief DeLeo

This comes after discrimination claims weren't supported
Posted at 4:21 AM, Jun 19, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-19 05:46:33-04

TALLASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Just one week after the investigation into racial discrimination accusations against Tallahassee Police Chief Michael DeLeo wrapped up some are asking the city to take another look at the complaints.

While the investigation into claims of race discrimination against Chief DeLeo found he did nothing wrong some say that's just not good enough.

Commissioner Bill Proctor is representing a group who wants more transparency with local police.

"It may not seem like a very big deal to some. It is a big deal to the Southside that we have a police agency that is fair. It's tentacles reach all across communities including my own house," said Proctor.

Proctor is asking for an independent review of the city of Tallahassee's investigation into Chief Michael DeLeo representing community members he says, have more encounters with police than those in any other district.

"I don't need 45 people to call about this. Springfield, Frenchtown, South City, Bond. People are sick and tired of what we have as a police force. DeLeo had actually interfered with the internal affairs of the investigation," said Proctor.

The city-led investigation was based on anonymous complaints against DeLeo filed back in February.

This four page letter was sent to the Tallahassee Human Relations Council.

It highlights around a dozen complaints alleging racial gaps in hiring, promotions and disciplinary actions by DeLeo.

These newly released documents also take at look at diversity within TPD.

It shows that Chief DeLeo promoted or hired all of the current women and minority majors, 12 of the 17 sergeants, and 6 of the 12 lieutenants.

After interviewing 13 TPD employees, and reviewing department and personnel records, the city found the information didn't support the complaints.

Proctor says he wants a more thorough investigation and one that doesn't involve the city.

WTXL reached out to the city of Tallahassee Tuesday for a comment but we didn't hear back.