Police Chief Responds To Upper Southampton Officer Charges

UPPER SOUTHAMPTON TOWNSHIP, PA — The township's police chief has issued a statement in regards to charges against a police officer and public works employee accused in a scheme to steal decommissioned vehicles.

Police Chief Dominic Varacallo said that Police Officer Derek J. Gale and Brandon F. Valentino, the township's assistant public works director, have both been placed on administrative leave.

"These allegations are deeply concerning and do not reflect the values of our Township or our Police Department," the police chief said. "We recognize and commend the dedication of our current officers and township employees, who serve the community with professionalism and integrity on a daily basis."

The Bucks County District Attorney's Office said a recent grand jury investigation has led to felony charges against an Upper Southampton Township police officer and a former public works employee in a criminal conspiracy involving bid rigging and theft of township vehicles.

Police Officer Derek J. Gale and Brandon F. Valentino, the township's former assistant public works director, conspired to intentionally lower the value of decommissioned township vehicles to secure them at a reduced price through the Municibid auction website, authorities said.

Varacallo said the police department is cooperating fully with the Bucks County District Attorney’s Office.

"We support a thorough and fair judicial process," the police chief said. "Transparency and integrity remain our highest priorities, and we are committed to maintaining public trust throughout this process."