Circleville Police Officer Fired for Violating Policies in K-9 Incident, Documents Show
A Circleville police officer was recently terminated for violating department policies during an incident involving the release of a K-9 on a surrendering truck driver. However, documents obtained from the Circleville Police Department indicate that the officer’s termination was not solely based on the incident itself.
According to the documents, Circleville Police Chief Shawn Baer informed Officer Ryan Speakman on July 19 to refrain from discussing the deployment of the K-9 with others. However, on July 20, it was reported that Speakman had spoken with other CPD employees about the incident. Subsequently, an internal investigation was initiated, and Speakman was scheduled for an interview.
During the investigation, Speakman admitted to speaking with his father and maybe someone else in his family regarding the incident. He also provided a two-page list of people outside of CPD that he had spoken to. As the investigation concluded, it was determined that Speakman had released confidential information and was deceptive when asked about his actions.
After a disciplinary conference on July 25, Speakman’s termination was announced on July 26. However, it should be noted that the Circleville Police Use of Review Board found that Speakman did not violate the department’s policy for the use of canines in the arrest of the truck driver.
In response to the incident, Chief Baer stated, Our investigation included the Circleville Police Use of Force Review Board determination that the department’s policy for the use of canines was followed in the apprehension and arrest. This suggests that the officer’s termination was primarily related to the violation of department policies surrounding the incident rather than the actual use of the K-9.
While the details surrounding the specific policies violated by Officer Speakman have not been disclosed, the internal investigation and subsequent termination highlight the importance of adherence to department protocols. The release of confidential information and deception during an investigation are serious offenses that can undermine public trust and the integrity of law enforcement agencies.
It is unclear whether the incident involving the release of the K-9 on the surrendering truck driver will face further scrutiny or legal action. However, the Circleville Police Department’s swift response in addressing officer misconduct demonstrates their commitment to transparency and accountability.
The termination of Officer Ryan Speakman serves as a reminder to law enforcement officers about the importance of upholding department policies and maintaining the public’s trust. Moving forward, the Circleville Police Department will likely continue to emphasize the importance of following protocol to ensure the fair and just treatment of all individuals involved in police encounters.
The incident also sparks broader discussions about the appropriate use of force in law enforcement, particularly when it comes to the deployment of police canines. While the Circleville Police Use of Review Board concluded that the department’s policy for the use of canines was followed in this particular case, it is crucial for law enforcement agencies nationwide to continually review and update their policies to align with best practices and public expectations.
As the fallout from this incident unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Circleville Police Department will address any systemic issues that may have contributed to Officer Speakman’s violation of department policies. It is vital for law enforcement agencies to prioritize the thorough review of processes and practices to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
Overall, the termination of Officer Ryan Speakman following his violation of department policies surrounding the K-9 incident serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, accountability, and adherence to protocols within law enforcement agencies. The incident also highlights the ongoing need for critical evaluation of use-of-force policies to ensure the fair and just treatment of individuals involved in police encounters.
