Coweta Police Chief Mike held a press conference today about the investigation into the city councilors and the city manager.
Police Chief Mike Bell tells KRMG the investigation was initiated by the city council after allegations were shared on social media involving the actions of city leaders regarding the data center, Project Atlas.
Five allegations are being investigated, but there were six initially. The harassment involving minor children investigation was halted.
“I would also like to address a misconception that has circulated within the community. The Chief of Police does not report to, nor serve at the pleasure of, the city council. Council members have the same rights as any citizen to report suspected criminal activity. This investigation is being initiated in the same spirit, based on citizen concerns raised through appropriate channels,” Bell said.
Chief Bell says they received only one official allegation from a resident, and it involved potential violations of the open records act. All the other allegations were made by people on social media.
“At this time, I will not discuss specific investigative steps, nor will I provide a timeline for completion,” Bell said. “This investigation will take whatever time needed in order to be conducted thoroughly and properly. Upon completion, a full report will be presented to the City Council during an open meeting, allowing for public discussion of the findings.”
Chief Bell is investigating real estate and licensing compliance, non-disclosure agreements and public records compliance, bribery, improper compensation or illegal transactions, misappropriation of public funds, and conduct potentially bringing discredit to the city.
