FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: The City of Frankfort Board of Public Works & Safety Places
Officer on Administrative Leave Without Pay
For additional information, please contact:
Mayor Judy Sheets, City of Frankfort
jsheets@frankfort-in.gov
FRANKFORT, IN (June 17, 2026) – 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.