HOLLY HILL, Fla. – An investigation by the Volusia Sheriff’s Office revealed allegations of sexual harassment and misconduct involving several high-ranking Holly Hill police officials, including the police chief.
The internal affairs report was released Friday afternoon.
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The investigation found numerous instances of sexual harassment and misconduct by former Chief Jeffrey Miller, as well as a police captain and two sergeants.
Investigators interviewed more than three dozen current or former city employees, revealing what the agency said was a clear imbalance of power at the top of the agency, leading to officers being subject to sexual abuse, emotional exploitation, inappropriate comments, and an overall hostile work environment.
The sheriff’s office began its investigation into misconduct earlier this year. But in March, the Holly Hill city manager informed Police Chief Jeffrey Miller that the inquiry was expanding into allegations against him. As a result, Miller verbally tendered his resignation.
The captain and one of the sergeants also resigned, while the other sergeant was suspended and placed on paid leave pending the results of the investigation.
Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood told News 6 last week that the findings were “pretty shocking.”
Chitwood released the report to his Facebook page Friday, along with a statement.
Holly Hill City Manager Joe Forte released a statement to News 6, saying: “I find myself profoundly dismayed by the testimonies and accusations. The actions of the chief, captain and sergeant seem antithetical to the very principles they are tasked with upholding and enforcing within our community.”
The city announced this week that Byron K. Williams, a captain with the Daytona Beach Police Department, has been hired on as the new police chief.
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