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."
-
Indiana officials give firework safety tips ahead of Fourth of July
Indiana Gov. Mike Braun and State Fire Marshall Steve Jones encourage Hoosiers to use fireworks and celebrate the Fourth of July safely.
Caitlin Clark not practicing Tuesday, to do individual workout
Fever head coach Stephanie White said Fever star guard Caitlin Clark will not practice on Tuesday, adding that Clark will be doing an individual workout.
Gov. Braun looks to fill IURC commissioner seat after chairman appointment
Governor Braun is on the hunt for the next commissioner to join the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, the agency that ultimately decides when your utility rates go up.
ISP: 73 arrests made in multi-agency drug patrol in north central Indiana
Six local law enforcement agencies recently teamed up for a six-day patrol focused on cracking down on illegal drugs and traffic enforcement in north central Indiana.
