ACLU of Oklahoma Statement on Seminole Police Chief’s Reported Conduct

OKLAHOMA CITY — In response to a complaint filed by the owner of a contract company with the city of Seminole, the ACLU of Oklahoma issued the following response.

The following is attributable to Micheal Redman, Interim Legal Director:

“The comments and conduct attributed to Seminole Police Chief David Hanson, if true, are completely unacceptable. Law enforcement personnel have a unique position of trust and authority and the Chief of Police is the ultimate symbol of that authority. Along with that authority comes a responsibility to all of the city’s citizens. It is unacceptable for a public official – especially a public official in a position of highest authority – to demean, disparage, and ridicule the persons whom he is obligated to protect and to serve.

A city’s culture starts at the top and the City of Seminole has committed to an independent and thorough investigation of these allegations. We commend them for that action.”