Chief Peterson investigation ending soon

The investigation into allegations against University Police Chief Donn Peterson has moved into its final stages, according to university officials.

According to Vice President for Administration and Finance Douglas Dawes, the Office of Independent Review (OIR) has completed their interview process with members of the University Police Department.

Dawes stated that the university will likely hear back from the OIR Group in March due to the nature of the investigation.

“The OIR Group is processing many hours of interviews from many individuals – they are doing a thorough job, which is what we want them to do,” Dawes said.

The investigation, which began last fall, started after nine officers presented a vote of no confidence against Peterson and brought forward allegations against him.

According to the press release from the Statewide University Police Association (SUPA), released with the vote, the officers within the union claimed that Peterson created “…hostile working conditions, poor moral amongst officers, and the lack of respect from our command staff.”

Sergeant John Packer of the UPD also released a statement through SUPA alleging that Peterson made racial remarks towards him.

Dawes reiterated his statements from November, stating that students will have to wait until the reports are received at the investigation’s end, but did not comment further on whether students will be able to see a full report.

SUPA Representative and UPD Officer Billy Kijsriopas was contacted for comment but did not respond in time for publication.