Flint PD buzzing over accusations of political intimidation

FLINT (WJRT) -- (08/12/08)--Some officers call it a "demotion." Their bosses call it a "transfer." Either way, the Flint Police Department is buzzing over accusations of political intimidation.

Last week, an off-duty officer helped gather signatures to recall Flint Mayor Don Williamson. Two days later, he was transferred to a new position.

"We believe this is intimidation," said Rick Hetherington.

Hetherington is speaking out about a colleague within the Flint Police Department who he says was demoted.

"I'm not talking to you as a member of the Flint Police Department or the sergeant's association," he said. "I'm talking to you as a member of the Committee for a Better Flint."

That committee gathered signatures last week at the Hasselbring Community Center to recall Williamson.

Among the volunteers, Hetherington says, was off-duty officer Dunell Chaney.

"The mayor and (Interim Police) Chief (David) Dicks came by," Hetherington said. "They stared at him for a few seconds. Then Don Williamson gave him a thumbs up and they drove away."

ABC12 has learned that two days later, the 21-year veteran was transferred from a school liaison officer to a regular police officer.

Sources say that means at least a 6 percent pay reduction and less overtime.

"It's a huge blow to the entire department. Officer Chaney is a respected officer," Hetherington said.

"There are no demotions that have taken place within the past week," Dicks said. "We have transfers -- lateral transfers."

Dicks denies any political motivation. He says the transfer was part of a larger restructuring effort to help the department run smoothly.

"I don't know about nobody (sic) recalling," Dicks said.

"If someone wanted to conduct activities off duty --whether it's politics or preach or whatever they do -- as long it's not a discredit to the police department, it's fine."

We couldn't reach Chaney for comment Tuesday, but Hetherington doesn't buy it.

As president of the Flint Police Sergeant's Association, Hetherington has been suspended before for speaking with the media, and he's threatening a lawsuit with the American Civil Liberties Union.

"The bigger issue is our rights as American citizens," Hetherington said. "First of all, the United States Constitution guarantees us the right to free speech."

The mayor himself says he does not respond to rumors.

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