KDH releases information on police chief suspension

The following is a release from the town of Kill Devil Hills regarding the suspension and subsequent reinstatement of Police Chief Gary Britt:

On Sept. 23, Kill Devil Hills Police Chief Gary Britt was placed on paid, non-disciplinary suspension because it was reported to the town manager that a petition for Britt’s removal was “imminent” from District Attorney Frank Parrish. The petition was never filed.

After the chief was placed on suspension, the town, with the assistance of the risk management division of the League of Municipalities, immediately coordinated a professional review of the performance and leadership of Chief Britt and its impact on the operations of the police department. The lengthy review was conducted by three retired law enforcement professionals: Gerald Galloway, retired police chief of Southern Pines; David D. Cashwell, retired director of the Criminal Justice Standards Division of the N.C. Department of Justice; and Thomas M. Moore, retired police chief of Garner.

The professional panel reviewed all identifiable complaints or issues which were understood to have been contained in the proposed petition. Extensive interviews were conducted with Britt as well as each and every employee of the police department, including both sworn officers and administrative staff. Although it appears that some employees had issues with Britt’s management style, there was no evidence identified that indicated anyone was intentionally violating any laws or engaging in any unethical conduct. Recommendations were made for improving certain aspects of Britt’s management style, including improving communication within the police department and clarifying existing policies.

Based on these findings and based on Britt’s employment history with the town, including his capability and willingness to work within the panel’s recommendation and town manager’s direction, Britt returned to his duties on Dec. 22.

Speculation on Britt’s employment status continued, and earlier this month, “The Outer Banks Voice” reported that Superior Court Judge Jerry Tillett had reported to questions by “The Voice.”  Tillett acknowledged investigations regarding Chief Britt and Kill Devil Hills officials and indicated that some matters had been referred to Superior Court Judge Milton F. Fitch Jr. Fitch subsequently  issued an order to the town on Jan. 19.

The order contained statements which indicate that inaccurate information was provided to him, including the statement that the town had recently implemented new policies which would limit an employee’s ability to speak out on matters of public concern. The town has filed an appeal with the N.C. Court of Appeals which addresses this order, which is a matter of public record.

Finally, recent public statements attributed to officer Andy Ennis indicate an apparent belief that his personal records have been falsified. This allegation has been investigated and is simply not true.