SEA ISLE CITY –– Mayor Leonard Desiderio opened today’s City Council meeting by announcing to the public an independent investigation into the police chief situation.

Chief William Kennedy was placed on paid administrative leave Nov. 5 after allegations surfaced regarding a possible relationship with a female subordinate. Kennedy’s wife Phyllis allegedly became aware of the affair and filed a restraining order against the chief under the Prevention of Domestic Violence Act.

Desiderio explained that he hired Francis Cook, of Fox Rothschild, a large Philadelphia law firm with experience handling similar cases.

Council authorized the awarding of the contract to Cook, who will be paid $395 an hour for the investigation.

According to interim-Administrator Richard Deaney, council members also passed a resolution authorizing the transfer of budget funds from the police department to the legal department in the amount of $25,000 to pay for the investigation.

Council President Mike McHale said he realized the price was high, but felt the city needed a capable person for this important task.

According to Solicitor Paul Baldini, the process was expected to take approximately two weeks, but may continue through the Thanksgiving holiday.

Residents, understandably concerned over the issue, asked what the scope of the investigation would be.

Baldini said Cook would have free reign to interview anyone he felt necessary to complete the investigation.

When another resident asked if Cook would be looking at city policies and procedures for possible lapses, Baldini said yes.

“He (Cook) has been instructed to evaluate our policies if he notices problems in his investigation,” he said. “We are always looking for growth and improvements in those areas.”

The issue of anonymity in the investigation also came up for whistle blowers.

A resident suggested a toll free hotline number to the investigator be established for those who fear retaliation for telling what they know.

Baldini said he would ask Cook to consider the hotline.

Desiderio also announced that, while Kennedy is under investigation, Captain Michael Cook would be the city’s acting Chief of Police.

Despite Captiain Cook’s name, the mayor made a point to explain that he is no relation to the investigator.

Contact Hart at (609) 886-8600 Ext 35 or at: jhart@cmcherald.com