On Monday September 8th, Chief Tim Lentz announces the completion of an internal investigation of two officers surrounding the use of confidential informant funds. The investigation was performed by investigators from the Mandeville Police Department at the request of Chief Lentz and determined that, while there were multiple policy violations, no criminal acts were committed.
The investigation into Lt. Stephen Culotta and Officer Bart Ownby began in May of this year, when Chief Lentz conducted a surprise audit of the confidential informant fund. During this audit, several questions were raised and an internal investigation was initiated. Due to the many complexities of the investigation, Chief Lentz requested the Mandeville Police Department, an outside agency, conduct the investigation.
The investigation into the two officers revealed numerous policy violations ranging from accountability, fund management and case file management to the payment of informants. When deciding the severity of discipline, several factors were taken into account.
Chief Lentz weighs the validity of the charges made against the officer(s), the seriousness of the violations, investigative reports and other appropriate evidence. Discipline is decided based upon these factors and will be commensurate with the circumstances surrounding the incident, the officer’s prior service record and prior sustained complaints.
Chief Lentz noted that during this investigation, both officers fully cooperated with investigators and have taken responsibility for their mistakes. Taking responsibility for their actions weighed heavily into the discipline ultimately handed down. Effective September 10th, Lt. Stephen Culotta will be suspended without pay for 28 consecutive days, which is equivalent to two pay periods, totaling 160 hours. Effective the same day, Officer Bart Ownby will be suspended without pay for 14 consecutive days, equivalent to one pay period, totaling 80 hours.
Chief Lentz states, “I appreciate the assistance of the Mandeville Police Department with this investigation. The Covington Police Department holds our officers accountable for their actions and will continue to work every day to create a professional environment for our employees, while continuing to earn the public’s trust and respect.”
