Officers Made Fake Vaccine Cards To Attend Training Outside WI: Report

MILWAUKEE, WI — Three police officers are accused of making and using fake COVID-19 vaccine cards to attend out-of-state training for the Milwaukee Police Department, local NBC-affiliate TMJ4 reported Monday. Police confirmed the matter is under investigation, but disputed the station's reporting that Chief of Police Jeffrey Norman was considering any disciplinary actions against the officers.

"Due to the nature of the reporting on this case and the seriousness of the allegation, it is important to clarify the record," the Milwaukee Police Department said Wednesday in a statement. "This matter remains under an internal investigation, and at this time, no discipline has been presented to the Chief of Police for consideration."

The city inspector general told TMJ4 on Monday that three people would face discipline after they made fake vaccine cards to attend an out-of-state training. The inspector general did not confirm who the three are or what their affiliation is with the police department.

"The Milwaukee Police Department takes the allegation of creating a fake or fraudulent vaccination card very seriously," police said in a statement, adding that the department won't determine what, if any, discipline will be given until the investigation is complete.

Officers are required to show their COVID-19 vaccination card if they want to travel for training and non-emergency work, an email from Norman showed. Staff who didn't get the shot would have their work travel considered on a case-by-case basis.

So far, two Milwaukee police unions — the Milwaukee Police Association and the Milwaukee Police Supervisors Organization — have agreed with the city to get their members vaccinated or otherwise wear a mask when on duty.

Union members who break this agreement face penalties, including suspension and discharge.

RELATED:

• Milwaukee Police Officers To Vaccinate After Union-City Deal
• City, Police Union Come To Agreement Over COVID-19 Vaccinations