MEDIA RELEASE CONTACT: Barbara Wilson 513-759-7308 or 513-304-4701 or bwilson@westchesteroh.org In West Chester, complaints of workplace misconduct, of any type, are treated seriously. Although we generally do not comment on personnel matters, the release of documents containing allegations against Police Chief Herzog requires some context. Allegations and complaints regarding the workplace culture in the West Chester Police Department, specifically at the Command Staff level, surfaced in 2019; and with no clear resolution in sight, West Chester Township hired a third-party investigator to review the complaints and make recommendations to the Board of Trustees. “West Chester Township expects the very best from its employees. Our taxpayers deserve the highest degree of integrity and professionalism and we demand that,” said West Chester Administrator Larry D. Burks. “As complaints surfaced among members of the Police Department command staff, they were taken seriously and acted upon individually. When matters seemed to persist, the Board of Trustees agreed it was best to hire an investigator outside of the Township organization to unravel the truth.” The complaints and allegations against Police Chief Joel Herzog came from two police captains and were not related to the handling of an investigation or efforts directly applicable to specific law enforcement activities in the community. The allegations and complaints were regarding suspected favoritism, inappropriate comments and implied retaliation for making complaints. The complaints were taken seriously and the most egregious allegations against Chief Herzog were determined to be unfounded. This investigation is not yet complete. The Board of Trustees will continue to work toward resolution with the best interest of the community in mind. “All officers involved have long, exemplary careers with the West Chester Police Department,” said Board of Trustees Chairwoman Ann Becker. “This is not a situation the Board of Trustees takes lightly and possible outcomes are weighed with a heavy heart for the exceptional careers of these individuals who each have served this community with great commitment.” The Board of Trustees and Township Administrator are working together to determine next steps based upon the investigator’s work. Further statements may be made as outcomes are more clearly defined