BPD officers placed on administrative leave during investigation

August 9, 2022 at 7:50 p.m.

By Cassie Garrett-

The Brookville Town Council addressed current Brookville Police Department (BPD) concerns during a special meeting, Aug. 4.

The Indiana State Police opened a recent investigation regarding allegations made in a Motion to Suppress hearing. BPD Officer Ryan Geiser shared testimony indicating BPD Chief Terry Mitchum and Officer Ryan Geiser conspired to keep Brookville resident Trevin Thalheimer (who was seeking a position on town council) from pursuing office.

As a result, the town council made several motions. All motions were passed unanimously by town council members present, including president Curtis Ward, Brooke Leffingwell and Cathy Pelsor:

MOTIONS PASSED:
- Administrative leave for both officers with pay during the investigation.
- An interim chief was appointed during Mitchum's leave. BPD Assistant Chief Mike Strait will be appointed as interim chief.
- Applications will be accepted for a new BPD Chief in 2023.
- No contact and no trespassing order between Mitchum and Geiser with any BPD officer, and they cannot be on the town property.

Mitchum and Geiser's badges, police vehicles, and guns will be collected.

Brookville Town Council President Curtis Ward stressed there is a presumption of innocence until proven guilty, and these steps are being taken to preserve the integrity of the BPD.

This is an ongoing story and will be updated as information is available.

The Brookville Town Council addressed current Brookville Police Department (BPD) concerns during a special meeting, Aug. 4.

The Indiana State Police opened a recent investigation regarding allegations made in a Motion to Suppress hearing. BPD Officer Ryan Geiser shared testimony indicating BPD Chief Terry Mitchum and Officer Ryan Geiser conspired to keep Brookville resident Trevin Thalheimer (who was seeking a position on town council) from pursuing office.

As a result, the town council made several motions. All motions were passed unanimously by town council members present, including president Curtis Ward, Brooke Leffingwell and Cathy Pelsor:

MOTIONS PASSED:
- Administrative leave for both officers with pay during the investigation.
- An interim chief was appointed during Mitchum's leave. BPD Assistant Chief Mike Strait will be appointed as interim chief.
- Applications will be accepted for a new BPD Chief in 2023.
- No contact and no trespassing order between Mitchum and Geiser with any BPD officer, and they cannot be on the town property.

Mitchum and Geiser's badges, police vehicles, and guns will be collected.

Brookville Town Council President Curtis Ward stressed there is a presumption of innocence until proven guilty, and these steps are being taken to preserve the integrity of the BPD.

This is an ongoing story and will be updated as information is available.

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