Groveland may hire outside help to handle load of police complaints

GROVELAND, Fla. — A police department with just over two dozen officers has racked up 12 human resources complaints this year.

Groveland city officials said those issues are overwhelming city resources.

The city manager said the only way they’ll be able to get those cases investigated in a timely manner is to bring in some help.

Groveland City Manager Redmond Jones said his office has been slammed with human resources complaints from the police department.

“Me and one HR manager is all we have to work through all these complaints,” said Jones.

It’s not uncommon in small towns for staff to wear multiple hats.

The Groveland human resources manager handles payroll and accounting, along with all of the HR duties.

Jones said even in a bigger city, the large number of complaints would be a huge case load.

So for that reason, he’s looking to bring in some help.

“Bringing in an outside firm to help us get through some of these cases, makes a lot of sense,” said Jones.

He said the complaints filed include whistle blower complaints, sexual harassment, and accusations of wrongdoing by Chief Melvin Tennyson.

Channel 9’s Myrt Price asked for copies of the complaints, but Jones said since the cases are being investigated, he couldn’t release them.

Over the past year, Channel 9 has reported numerous issues inside the Groveland Police Department.

Price asked Jones if he’s concerned.

“We’re not that Andy Griffith, one bullet in your gun town anymore,” Jones said.

He said in the past, the police department had few issues and things went under the radar, but now the chief is instituting standards and holding people accountable.

He believes the complaints are the result of employees who are trying to push back, and officials said about six people have filed 12 complaints.

The complaints have to be investigated first to determine if they’re legitimate.

Officials don’t know how much it will cost to bring in the help they need.

Cox Media Group