The Columbus City Council Tuesday voted to uphold the suspension of a Columbus police officer, who is retiring this month.
Lt. Keith Worshaim, a shift commander and veteran of the Columbus Police Department, appealed a 12-day suspension levied by CPD Chief Joseph St. John.
Reportedly, Worshaim”s suspension, which began Sept. 8, was the result of several infractions, including allegedly placing a new officer on foot patrol after the officer noted Worshaim failed to meet qualifications to carry a Taser; cutting short a four-hour ride-along St. John granted to a private citizen; and poor treatment of members of the media at the scenes of accidents or crimes.
Worshaim, who is retiring from the CPD, was sent home on paid administrative leave on Aug. 8 and began his unpaid suspension Sept. 8.
Local attorney Rod Ray represented Worshaim during the appeal hearing, which was held in executive session of the council meeting. Ray also represented Columbus police officers suspended for 15 days after a May incident at the Vicksburg National Military Park; the officers were accused of riding through the park in a marked Columbus police cruiser and flashing the vehicle”s lights and sirens at passersby.
Worshaim”s retirement from the CPD is scheduled to begin Oct. 23.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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