CARMEL — The Carmel Police Department chief is recommending a deputy chief be terminated after an investigation found "a pattern of troubling behavior."
In a press release from the city on Wednesday, Chief Jeff Horner has recommended the Carmel Police Merit Board terminates Joe Bickel after an investigation into allegations he groped the breast of a female employee, tried to forcibly kiss another female employee and kissed the hand and neck of another female employee at a work-related event.
The investigation also looked into allegations he attempted to use his position to influence another police department employee to violate an operating procedure to benefit a family member, according to the release.
Carmel Mayor Jim Brainard ordered an external investigation and suspended Bickel, according to the release. The release also states Horner "removed" Bickel from his position as deputy chief, but says state police merit law requires Bickel to retain his position and merit rank until a decision is made by the Carmel Police Merit Board.
WRTV reached out to the city spokespeople by email for additional clarification and was told "the City of Carmel has no further comments or updates about this matter at this time."
“I am disappointed that one of the key leaders in our police department did not uphold the high standards of conduct expected of those in positions of authority. All levels of our law enforcement team should reflect the excellence of our nationally-recognized and accredited Police Department, especially those who were chosen to set the example for all to follow," Brainard said in the press release. "I fully support Chief Horner’s decision to recommend Bickel’s termination because doing so is necessary to maintain the integrity and reputation of our Carmel Police Department."
-
Heatwave holds on with another day in the 90s
Another day with high heat and humidity across parts of Indiana. Our pattern begins to shift a little and brings us more rain chances for the end of the week into the holiday weekend.
Indianapolis EMS director sees surge in calls during heat wave
Due to the extreme heat, Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services has seen a spike in heat-related calls. People are encouraged to check on their neighbors and loved ones.
Indiana auto systems maker to shut down Terre Haute plant, cut 207 jobs
Auto system maker ThyssenKrupp Presta North America is closing its Terre Haute manufacturing facility, permanently eliminating 207 jobs over the next nine months.
Tips to keep your pets’ tail wagging during the Indiana heatwave
If it’s hot and uncomfortable for us, it is for them, too. Keeping your pets cool and safe amid the Indiana heatwave is just as important as keeping ourselves cool.
