Norfolk Police Chief Don Miller, along with two senior officers, Capt. Chad Reiman and Lt. Josh Bauermeister, will step down at the end of the year following a four-month investigation into the department. The Norfolk City Council approved the resignations and settlement agreements on Monday, totaling over $800,000.
Miller, Reiman, and Bauermeister had been placed on administrative leave earlier this year amid allegations of an unfair work environment. Miller and Reiman were suspended in August, while Bauermeister was placed on leave in September. Under the agreements, Miller will receive $408,000, Reiman $250,000, and Bauermeister $150,000, with additional compensation of approximately $101,000 for unused paid time off.
Norfolk City Administrator Andy Colvin acknowledged the challenges faced by the police division, noting that since 2019, 19 officers have left the department, which operates with a sworn staff of nearly 40. Despite this, Colvin praised the department’s resilience in maintaining operations during the investigation.
In a statement, Miller announced his retirement, expressing pride in his 34 years of service and gratitude for the relationships he has built with the community and law enforcement agencies. He plans to remain in Norfolk and explore new opportunities.
Colvin thanked Miller for his leadership and significant contributions to the department, including spearheading innovative policing programs and overseeing the development of a modern police station. He added that the city will immediately begin the search for Miller’s successor.
In the interim, Capt. Mike Bauer and Lt. Bright Tight have been managing the department’s operations. The city council meeting, where these agreements were approved, is available online.
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