3News Investigates: Akron police officer gets paid to stay home after sexual harassment finding скачать в хорошем качестве

3News Investigates: Akron police officer gets paid to stay home after sexual harassment finding

A veteran Akron police lieutenant accused of misconduct won't be fired — instead, he'll be paid to stay home for more than a year. Records obtained by 3News Investigates show Lt. Brian Simcox was placed on paid terminal leave after an investigation found that he sexually harassed a co-worker. The incident that effectively ended Simcox's nearly 30-year career at the Akron Police Department happened at the visitation/funeral for 30-year veteran detective Clay Cozart. According to a notice of disciplinary charges, on July 5, 2025, Simcox was walking by a female officer, who had at the time less than two years of experience in her role with the Akron Police Department. Simcox signaled like he was giving her a high five — instead, the report says that he "slapped her derriere." The notice says Simcox texted the female officer and apologized, which the city of Akron used as an admission of guilt. It also notes that another officer observed the incident. City officials determined that Simcox’s actions were a form of sexual harassment. Paperwork shows Simcox was placed on paid leave on Aug. 6, but on Oct. 1, Simcox and the city of Akron agreed to a settlement. The deal allows the lieutenant to remain on payroll through January 2027. Simcox’s record ultimately will not reflect multiple instances that led to suspensions or losses of pay or benefits. 3News reached out to Akron's largest police union — the Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 7. It noted Simcox was not terminated and will leave the department "in good standing." Read: https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/inv...