Discrimination, Harassment Claims Against Police Department Under Investigation In Orland

ORLAND PARK, IL — Village of Orland Park officials have hired an outside firm to investigate claims of discrimination and harassment leveled against the Orland Park Police Department by employees within it, officials confirmed last week.

Officials have received what they referred to as "conflicting complaints" from two employees within the department, Village Manager George Koczwara said in an email to Patch, in response to a Freedom of Information request.

"The Village of Orland Park does not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment," Koczwara said. "We have a police department with an excellent track record, and we take every allegation very seriously.

"The allegations have not been substantiated, and we are in the process of investigating them."

The Village has hired outside law firm Clark Hill and a retired police executive from Gold Shield Detective Agency to conduct a third-party review of both complaints filed. Once that investigation is completed, the Village will take appropriate action, Koczwara said.

Koczwara said the investigation is ongoing, and officials expect it will be completed within 30 days. More information will be made available at the completion, he said.

"While personnel issues arise from time to time which need to be addressed, we value our employees and the service they consistently provide to the community," Koczwara said.

A source close to the situation told Patch the allegations are against Police Chief Eric Rossi and Deputy Chief of Police Brian West. Officials declined to confirm.

"The Village is honoring the request of the complainant not to divulge information regarding this matter at this time," Koczwara said. "... the Village takes these matters very seriously and will continue to conduct the review in a professional manner, ensuring proper due diligence."