Falls Twp. Police Chief Issued Grand Jury Subpoena

FALLS TOWNSHIP, PA — Following his being placed on paid leave on Tuesday, Fall Township Police Chief Nelson Whitney has been issued a grand jury subpoena related to a federal investigation.

Whitney's leave came after the Police Association of Falls Township (P.A.F.T.) voted no-confidence in regards to his leadership and the overall morale of the police department.

A statement that was published by his attorney, Scott Pollins, says that Whitney is currently investigating whether or not his cooperation in the federal investigation has anything to do with the recent vote against him or his leave.

"Chief Whitney is disappointed in this vote, however he knows that the integrity and professionalism he has brought to the department since he became Chief has not been popular with everyone," the statement read.

Whitney started as acting police chief of the department in September of 2020 and was officially made chief the following January. He began his career with the Falls Township Police Department in 1988 and has been an integral part of several high-profile cases, including the Terry Brooks cold case.

While Nelson is on leave, the police department will see Officer Henry Ward fill in as acting police chief.

The statement from Whitney's attorney says that the police chief is looking forward to returning to his position in the police force.