2 IMPD officers to learn if they can keep their badges
INDIANAPOLIS (IWSH) – Erica Bailey is ready for Tuesday.
She will enter the Marion City-County Building and wait as the Merit Board decides the fate of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers Michael P. Dinnsen and Carlton J. Howard.
“I’m nervous but I’m ready. I’m glad we are moving forward with the case. I feel like the officers should be terminated for what they did,” Bailey said.
The two officers fatally shot an unarmed Aaron Bailey nearly a year ago, on June 29, during the end of a high-speed chase. Bailey led the chase. In the aftermath, there was an outcry for the officers to face criminal charges. A special prosecutor ruled no charges would be filed. However, IMPD Police Chief Bryan Roach recommended the officers for termination.
The Merit Board must decide if the officers will maintain employment with the department. The merit board is made up of seven members who are appointed to the positions.
“I’m going to make sure I’m going to go to every hearing. I’m nervous about seeing the officers that killed my dad I have a lot of mixed emotions,” Bailey said.
On Monday afternoon, the local Fraternal Order of Police released this statement:
“This has been a tragedy for everyone involved. We extend our prayers and condolences to all those affected. We all understand and appreciate the public’s concern whenever officers are faced with the difficult, split second decision to defend themselves and others against a potentially armed suspect. Since the announcement of the IMPD Chief of Police this past November we have sought further documentation to better understand the basis for the Chief’s decision as it relates to departmental policies, departmental training and especially in light of the published decision of the Special Prosecutor. From the start, we have only requested that the review be conducted through a fair, consistent process and the decision be based solely upon the evidence. We all understand how important this case is. That is why it is being presented to a Police Merit Board made up of citizens of this community, all from diverse backgrounds. These citizens will be able to examine all of the facts and determine whether these officers acted within policy. We are hopeful this review and judgment will be fair and impartial and free of any political influence or undue public pressure.”
Indy Fraternal Order of Police
The merit board hearing is set to start at 9 a.m. Tuesday in Courtroom 10 of the City-County Building, according to an attorney for the family.