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Chief: Investigation says Columbus police lieutenant created hostile work environment

The Columbus Chief of Police has recommended a veteran lieutenant be fired.

COLUMBUS -- The Columbus Chief of Police has recommended a veteran lieutenant be fired.

An Internal Affairs investigation says Lieutenant Melissa McFadden created a hostile work environment and violated federal employment laws.

According to the investigation, McFadden, who is black, gave a black sergeant a more positive evaluation than he deserved because she doesn't believe in "black on black crime."

McFadden denied she treated any of her subordinates differently based on their race.

McFadden is currently on desk duty.

Chief Kim Jacobs' recommendation of termination now goes to the city Safety Director for final review.

A lawyer representing McFadden issued the following statement:

“Lt. McFadden is a career public servant and decorated leader in the Columbus Division of Police. Lt. McFadden denies the allegations in the investigation that led to Chief Jacobs recommending her termination. Lt. McFadden is shocked that Chief Jacobs would have terminated her employment based on these allegations, while white officers were not terminated for far worse conduct including use of the n-word, and theft of time. Lt. McFadden looks forward to appealing any negative final decision on her employment, through arbitration and all available legal processes.”

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