It's a "he said she said" situation that has caused the mayor to make a decision that he says is best for the city. After a suspended Binghamton police officer made public accusations against Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski, Binghamton Mayor Rich David has decided to put the chief on paid administrative leave. Emily Lorsch has more.
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. -- It’s been several days since a lawsuit was filed against Binghamton police chief Joseph Zikuski.
Officer Kristi Sager claims Zikuski sexually harassed her and then discriminated against her by suspending her for misconduct and policy violations.
While Zikuski has denied the allegations, he and mayor Rich David have agreed the situation could affect his job.
"We were both concerned that from a longterm standpoint as due process takes its course there's the potential for this to be a distraction on the department," said David.
Because of that, they came to a mutual decision to put Zikuski on paid administrative leave.
"The chief is adamant that these accusations are not true. However based on the nature of the allegations, I felt it was in the city's best interest to be proactiv," the mayor added.
The city will also have an independent review conducted.
It will review the police department’s policies and make sure all officers are in compliance.
The mayor said that’s a key initiative moving forward.
"The integrity of our police department is fundamental for building trust between our officers and the community they serve," said the mayor.
David stresses that the decision to place the chief on leave is not disciplinary and should not imply the allegations are credible.
For the time being, Assistant Chief Bill Yeager will be acting chief of the police department.
The mayor expects the independent review to take at least 30 to 45 days.