7 On Your Side has learned of an investigation of sexual harassment allegations at the Seneca Police Department.
Late Monday, the department released documents, requested by 7 On Your Side about the investigation, noting that several officers have left the department, and another was demoted as a result.
According to documents released under the Freedom of Information Act, an employee of the department wrote a letter at the beginning of December, where she describes allegations of sexual harassment at the department.
She writes in that letter - in part - "I am writing this as an attempt to address an issue I have had in my work environment over the past few months concerning unwanted sexual comments and gestures. This has been an ongoing issue and has happened on several occasions by several officers."
She goes on to say that she didn't feel comfortable even coming into work, when she was off-duty because she claims there was always someone that was going to look at her in a sexual manner, rather than as a coworker.
The Seneca Police Department says, as a result of the investigation, several officers have left the department and one has been demoted from Captain to the position of Corporal. Documents show, his name is Dean Awalt.
The employee wrote the complaint letter on December 1st. The paperwork was filed for the officer to be demoted, a short time later, on December 8th.
The department is not releasing any information about the other employees who left, saying it's not a matter of legitimate public interest and would be an invasion of their personal privacy.
Seneca Police Chief John Covington declined an on-camera interview, but released the following statement to 7 On Your Side:
"We received an internal complaint and investigated the matter quickly, thoroughly and properly. We have put the matter behind us and are continuing the job of protecting and serving the people of Seneca."
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