Italy Police Investigate Sexual Harassment Allegation; Employee Placed on Leave

An Italy Police Department employee has been placed on administrative leave amid an ongoing investigation into a sexual harassment allegation involving members of the department, according to Police Chief Chad Nelson.

In a statement responding to posts about the allegation, Nelson said the department received a complaint September 14 from an outside source with knowledge of the alleged incident. He said the department has been investigating since then.

Investigators have been gathering written statements from people who may have information about the case. Nelson said the employee accused of harassment was placed on administrative leave based on findings so far, but he did not disclose those findings or when the leave began.

The department is waiting for one more statement before determining disciplinary action, according to Nelson.

“We are still waiting on one more statement at this time to ensure we have as many details as possible before a proper disciplinary action can be administered,” he said.

The statement did not identify anyone involved, describe the alleged conduct or specify whether the administrative leave is paid.

Nelson said no further details would be released while the investigation remains active, citing the need to protect its integrity and both people involved.

“This is an allegation only,” Nelson said. “We have the duty to protect both the victim and the subject until the investigation is completed.”