Tuesday July 7, 2015, 6:28 PM
Today the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Police Merit Board upheld Chief Rick Hite’s recommendation for termination of Mr. Jason Barber. The Police Merit Board met this morning and heard hours of testimony and reviewed evidence presented from the Office of Corporation Counsel, Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, IMPD’s Internal Affairs and Mr. Barber (representing himself). The board voted and rendered a unanimous decision in favor of Chief Hite’s recommendation.
“This concludes a lengthy internal and public process for IMPD. After reviewing the policies, practices and previous recommendations made by a former Chief, I stand committed with the recommendation for termination of Mr. Barber”, said Chief Rick Hite. “I feel the Merit Board has rendered a just and fair decision after having reviewed all the pertinent facts of this case. This process will enable the department, as well as Mr. Barber, to move forward in a way that is both equitable and fair for both”.
The Merit Board found that Mr. Barber violated several of the department’s rules and regulations stemming from a March 2008 incident for which Mr. Barber was subsequently arrested.