A press release from Owasso Police Chief Scott Chambliss reveals an OPD officer has been suspended with pay under allegations of use of excessive force.
The release reads as follows:
“On June 14, 2015, officers of the Owasso Police Department participated in a vehicle pursuit that ended near Nowata, Oklahoma. The department is currently conducting an internal investigation into allegations that excessive force was used on the driver of the vehicle. The Owasso Police Department strives for the utmost in professionalism from its officers and will conduct a thorough review of this incident. The officers will be given the opportunity to explain their actions and all evidence will be reviewed. If it is determined that excessive force was used, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken and any criminal allegations will be submitted for prosecutorial review. One officer has been placed on administrative leave. The name the officer is not being released at this time. Public trust is vital to any law enforcement agency and this release is being submitted to ensure the public that any issues related to excessive force or other unlawful conduct will be immediately acted upon by our department.
Because this is an internal investigation into a personnel matter/potential disciplinary action, the Owasso Police Department will not be issuing further statements or conducting interviews related to this incident until the investigation is completed.”
The release comes on the same day that the Owasso City Council voted 5-0 to approve a $75,000 settlement to a man that claimed excessive force was used against him during a 2011 arrest by Lt. Mike Denton .
