Denver Police Chief is urged to act more professionally after open records denial

Denver Police Department Chief Robert White insulted his officers, used poor communication when responding to an open records request and runs a department described as having “dysfunctional relationships,” but he will not face discipline after two internal investigations concluded he did not violate any department policies.

Denver Mayor Michael Hancock said Monday he will not discipline White for his actions in the denial of a 2016 open records request or a 2017 car chase after he was involved in a hit-and-run.

Although the chief’s actions did not warrant discipline, the mayor said he should have exercised more professionalism and clarity in his communication during those situations, according to a news release.

“I have spoken with Chief White to make it abundantly clear that, as a trusted leader of this community, he must hold himself to the highest standard,” Hancock said in a statement. “The Chief should have exercised more professionalism in these instances, but his conduct did not rise to the level of discipline. I truly believe that Denver has an honorable and dedicated Police Chief in Robert White. He values accountability, he prioritizes doing the right thing and he cares deeply about the police department and people of Denver.” Read more…