By: Matt Scher, [email protected]
Humboldt, IA – A packed chamber at Monday’s City Council session in Humboldt heard allegations of workplace misconduct within the Humboldt Police Department. Former Assistant Chief of Police John Rodriguez delivered a prepared statement in which allegations were directed at the city’s Chief of Police, City Administrator, Mayor, and the Council.
The allegations made by Rodriguez during the general public input portion of the session included discrimination on race, claims of intoxication on the job, use of excessive force, and mismanagement of the department’s evidence rooms, all items he claims were not investigated by the department or City. The Council for the City of Humboldt approved a Separation Agreement and General Release between the Humboldt Police Department and Rodriguez at the July 15 session, with Rodriguez receiving a severance. As to the allegations, Officer David Jones of the Humboldt Police Department addressed the council.
Officer Jones was one of several from the community who took time to speak at Monday’s session. Humboldt City Administrator Cole Bockelmann, who was the receiving end of allegations of the city turning a blind eye says the City did conduct an investigation into the allegations.
Details from the investigation cannot be disclosed by city officials due to a state law in Chapter 80F of the Iowa Code. Humboldt’s Chief of Police Joel Sanders announced his intention to retire in a letter released on August 12, citing wanting to focus on his emotional, spiritual, and physical health and to reconnect with family. Chief Sanders is staying with the department through no later than November 5 to help the department as they are short on numbers.
The City did also begin the process of searching for a new chief with Edgar Public Safety and Healthcare Solutions.