The City of Frankfort Board of Public Works and Safety convened today and voted to place Frankfort Police Officer Ethan Cunningham on administrative leave without pay, effective immediately.
The Board’s decision follows a formal recommendation submitted by Frankfort Police Chief Scott Shoemaker. The unpaid administrative leave will remain in effect pending the outcome and results of Officer Cunningham’s upcoming criminal trial. Indiana Code provides that an officer may be placed on unpaid administrative leave, but any alternative disciplinary actions must be stayed until the conclusion of the criminal case.
In a separate but related matter during the meeting, Chief Shoemaker requested and received approval from the Board to begin exploring options to rehome K9 Taz. The City of Frankfort has been boarding Taz at the city’s expense since the initial incident occurred.
“Given the nature of the situation and the pending legal proceedings, this administrative action is necessary and appropriate while the judicial process takes its course,” stated Mayor Judy Sheets. Additionally, our priority with K9 Taz is finding the best possible long-term solution for his care and well-being.”
Because this remains an active legal and personnel matter, the City of Frankfort cannot comment regarding the specifics any internal investigation or the pending criminal case at this time.