Police say Rochester Police Detective Charles LoTempio will retire with his pension after a controversial EMT arrest investigation.
More than two years after a Rochester police investigator forcefully arrested an EMT inside the emergency room at Strong Memorial Hospital, his punishment has been settled.
Statement from Rochester Police Chief Dave Smith:
“On July 18, 2022, I became aware of an incident at Strong Hospital involving Investigator Charles LoTempio. After a preliminary review of the situation, it was obvious that Investigator LoTempio’s actions were not in line with my expectations as Chief of the Rochester Police Department. I immediately suspended Investigator LoTempio and directed the Professional Standards Section to begin an internal investigation. At the conclusion of that investigation, it was found that Investigator LoTempio violated the Rochester Police Department General Orders and its Rules and Regulations. This was a lengthy process, which in accordance with Article 75 of the New York State Civil Service Law and the Collective Bargaining Agreement, included a hearing in front of a neutral Hearing Officer.
At the completion of that hearing, I did not agree with the recommended discipline and pursued an alternate disciplinary agreement between myself, Investigator LoTempio, and the Rochester Police Locust Club. As a result of that agreement, Investigator LoTempio will be retiring from the Rochester Police Department and will not contest the City of Rochester’s application to the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Service to have his status as a Police Officer revoked. It is important to note, that this agreement is final and not subject to appeal or grievance.
As Chief, I have a responsibility to both our community and the to the rights of our employees. Although this was a lengthy process, it was crucial to follow all of the steps outlined in both Civil Service Law and the Collective Bargaining Agreement. I appreciate the patience shown throughout this process, which is ultimately ending with Investigator LoTempio no longer serving as a Police Officer in the City of Rochester.”