Chief Stehr speaks: Ending an era in Burbank

I have decided to retire after a more than 31-year career with one of the most professional and top-quality law enforcement agencies in this state. This is an extremely difficult decision for me to leave this department, where I have had such a rich and rewarding career.

I have spent virtually my entire adult life here at the Burbank Police Department. I met my incredible wife here, her family and so many great people who have become lifelong friends.

I regret that I am prevented from fully commenting on the investigations and litigation that seem to be so consuming to the city, but I want to assure the community that the men and women of this department are totally committed to the safety of this city.

I would like to comment on something that seems to be misunderstood and misrepresented in the many public discussions of these issues, and that is the Police Department’s legal duty to investigate all complaints of misconduct.

When a citizen brings allegations involving the misconduct of a Burbank police officer to the attention of the Burbank Police Department, the Police Department is mandated by law to conduct an administrative investigation. When a citizen’s accusation of misconduct is so egregious that if true, it would constitute criminal misconduct, the Police Department refers that accusation to an independent law enforcement agency to conduct a criminal investigation. Under those circumstances, the police officer is placed on administrative leave, with full pay, pending the outcome of the administrative investigation, and possibly the criminal investigation.

Currently, one or more citizens have accused several Burbank officers of misconduct. Those accusations are under administrative investigation by an independent investigator hired by the Burbank Police Department, with the approval of the City Council. In addition, the Burbank Police Department referred the accusations of misconduct to an outside law enforcement agency.

I believe that my continued service here is a distraction that the city and the department do not need, and that is why I announced my retirement. I am proud of my record of service to this community at every step of my career, from cadet all the way to chief.