Lawrence citizens react to police ticket scandal
Just one day after the city confirms what a 6News source tells us about two Lawrence police officers, the public is reacting. “I don't think it's right,” said a Lawrence man named Lynn. “Basketball tickets for writing off tickets, no, that's just not right."
The city says two officers have been suspended for dismissing speeding tickets in exchange for KU basketball tickets. “It does seem like a little bit of an abuse of power,” said resident Josh Hill. “It sounds a little shady."
The department says it learned about the incident in May and informed the U.S. Attorney’s office. Federal authorities conducted a six-month long investigation and determined no crimes were committed, but the city says the incident violates its gratuity policy. The officers could be fired for their actions and residents now question if what they did is right but also say it’s understandable. “You know you live in a college town and there’s a culture of athletics kind of being above everything else,” said Lawrence resident Mike Mitchell.
The incident is linked to the 2010 KU ticket scandal that landed five former KU employees in prison for stealing up to $1 million in sports tickets and selling them for personal gain. “If the KU ticket scandal hadn't been so large at the University this probably never would have been heard of," said Lawrence resident Amy Rork.
City Manager Dave Corliss acknowledged the incident will likely shake the trust of the community, but says it's an isolated event. “I think that there will be some momentary damage to the department," said Corliss. "But the continuing strength of the department and the excellent strength that is provided by the members of the department are appreciated by this community."