Accusations and Responses
Former Houston Police Department (HPD) Chief Troy Finner has claimed that he was forced into retirement due to a cover-up regarding a sexual assault investigation scandal. Finner, who resigned in early May, suggested that his departure was part of an attempt to conceal the truth about the mishandling of sexual assault cases within the department. However, Houston Mayor John Whitmire refuted these claims, asserting that Finner chose to retire voluntarily.
Mayor’s Stance
Speaking to KPRC 2 investigator Mario Diaz, Mayor Whitmire expressed a composed but clear dismissal of Finner’s allegations. According to Whitmire, the decision to retire was Finner’s own, and the assertions made by Finner are incorrect. Whitmire emphasized that he would not engage in a public debate with Finner, maintaining that the former chief’s statements were unfounded. The mayor is awaiting the completion of the HPD’s internal review and an independent group’s investigation, both expected to finalize their reports soon.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy dates back to an internal affairs investigation that began in February. This investigation was triggered by a letter from Executive Assistant Chief Saundra Hatcher, which contained inaccuracies that led to the reopening of previous cases. Key developments emerged from KPRC 2’s investigations, which revealed that certain children’s cases had been suspended. Additionally, it was discovered that Finner had been aware of suspended sexual assault cases as far back as 2018, contradicting his earlier claims that he only knew about them in 2021.
Union’s Perspective
Doug Griffith, President of the Houston Police Officers Union, also weighed in on the matter, describing Finner’s actions and statements as disingenuous. Griffith criticized Finner for portraying himself as a scapegoat while implicating two of his assistant chiefs in the scandal. He suggested that Finner’s claims were an attempt to deflect blame for his own prior knowledge and actions regarding the suspended cases.
Pending Investigations
The reopened investigation into the sexual assault scandal was initially expected to be completed by July 1st. However, the process has been delayed, with one HPD official describing the situation as a “complete mess.” Despite these delays, Mayor Whitmire assured that both the HPD’s final review and the independent group’s report are forthcoming and will provide clarity on the matter.
Conclusion
The situation remains tense as the city awaits the results of the investigations. Former Chief Finner’s allegations have stirred significant controversy, prompting responses from various officials and adding complexity to an already fraught issue. The upcoming reports are anticipated to shed light on the true extent of the mishandling of sexual assault cases within HPD and determine the veracity of the claims made by both Finner and Mayor Whitmire.
Future Updates
Further details are expected to emerge as the investigations conclude. Additional insights will likely be provided in the upcoming broadcasts and reports, potentially influencing public opinion and the administration of HPD. Mayor Whitmire’s commitment to transparency and accountability will be crucial in navigating the fallout from this scandal and restoring trust in the city’s law enforcement.
