Police Chief Michael Chabries gave Officer Frank Hatton-Ward seven reasons for the officer's termination. A copy of the letter was obtained from Hatton-Ward's attorney because the city refused to make it public.
Here's a summary of the letter's allegations:1. Insubordination. Hatton-Ward continued to investigate the serial killings after being ordered not to. The officer also obtained photographs of crime scenes under false pretenses.
2. Neglect of duties. He failed to report that he had interviewed someone who claimed to have information about the killings.
3. Incompetency. During the interview of a potential suspect, Hatton-Ward "put words in (suspect's) mouth."
4. Causing disruption and disharmony. "Your criticism appears to be motivated by a selfish interest of bolstering your ego."
5. Disclosure of confidential information. "You disclosed confidential information (to the press) concerning names of suspects and witnesses."
6. Sick leave abuse. Hatton-Ward was seen at a drinking party at Fort Douglas on a day that he had called in sick.
7. Past work history. "Your . . . history, which contains discipline for similar violations of policies and procedures, demonstrates that you do not respond to progressive discipline and that you are unwilling or unable to correct behavior unacceptable for a police officer.
"In conclusion," Chabries states in the letter, "I cannot have officers who will blatantly disregard orders of superiors, create disruption among coworkers, bring discredit on the department and compromise personal integrity."