SEA ISLE CITY –– Mayor Leonard Desiderio announced Dec. 11 that an independent investigation into Police Chief William Kennedy and his relationship with a subordinate, Dispatcher Debbie Valentine, led to disciplinary charges being filed against both on Nov. 30, City Council President Mike McHale confirmed for the Herald.
Philadelphia attorney Frank Cook’s investigation, which began on Nov. 2, found that charges were warranted in the case that came to light when Kennedy’s wife Phyllis reportedly found pornographic photos and messages on the chief’s city-issued cell phone.
The city held an emergency closed-session meeting Oct. 25 to discuss possible litigation with Chief Kennedy. When asked why the city was expecting litigation, Solicitor Paul Baldini referred to online Herald Spout Offs that discussed Mrs. Kennedy’s discovery of the cell phone communications and her contacting of authorities.
Following her discovery, Mrs. Kennedy filed a restraining order against her husband, under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act, at which time the chief was forced to surrender his weapons. The county Prosecutor’s office, however, found insufficient evidence to pursue criminal charges. The scope of that investigation was limited solely to the domestic violence incident and response by Sea Isle police.
Officials would not disclose the nature of the Nov. 30 charges on advice of council.
Chief Kennedy and Valentine have been suspended without pay or benefits. Kennedy had been placed on administrative leave with pay on Nov. 5.
A date for the departmental hearing on the charges has yet to be determined, but attorney Robert Sandman has been designated the Hearing Officer and Cook will represent the city’s interests in the matter.
Capt. Michael Cook remains in charge of the Sea Isle Police Department while the Kennedy situation is resolved.
Contact Hart at (609) 886-8600 Ext 35 or at: jhart@cmcherald.com
Wildwood Crest – Several of Donald Trump’s Cabinet picks have created quite a bit of controversy over the last few weeks. But surprisingly, his pick to become the next director of the FBI hasn’t experienced as much…
