Lincoln Plowman has resigned his positions with IMPD and the City-County Council amidst an investigation.
An FBI investigation into Plowman’s activities prompted an IMPD administrative investigation into possible rule and policy violations. The exact reason for the investigation hasn’t been released. Plowman will not talk to the media about it.
Plowman’s attorney, John F. Kautzman, issued a statement Monday saying that Plowman met with Public Safety Director Frank Straub to confirm his decision to retire from the force. Plowman, a major, served for 23 years and made $100,00 a year in that position.
“I think it was a very difficult day for him,” said Straub.
But staying would have been more difficult for Plowman, whose 30-day administrative leave ended Friday. Straub said Plowman would not have been able to keep his position if he had not chosen to retire.
Plowman’s retirement closes the IMPD investigation. As a result, the evidence gathered and the conclusions of investigators remain confidential and unavailable for public scrutiny.
The two-term Republican
councilman submitted one-sentence resignation letter:
“It has been an honor to serve the city as a law enforcement officer and as a councillor.”
Council President Ryan Vaughn also met with Plowman Monday. Vaughn said Plowman’s decision to step down from the council comes as something of a relief.
“Anytime this happens to an elected official it becomes a distraction to the core responsibilities of that office,” said Vaughn.
Meantime, the subject of the ongoing investigation remains unanswered. Straub said it would be inappropriate for him to comment.
Last week, Councillor Angela Mansfield filed an ethics complaint against Plowman demanding to know the nature of the investigation.
Mayor Greg Ballard issued the following statement:
“It is important that public servants at every level of government be held to the highest ethical standards, because that is what citizens expect and deserve. I applaud the work of Director Straub and Council President Vaughn for their leadership in this matter and for their commitment to upholding the integrity of IMPD and the City-County Council.”
According to Kautzman’s statement, Straub confirmed that there are no departmental charges filed or pending against Plowman, and that Plowman’s retirement eliminates any need for departmental action.
from msnbc.com
