FL Police Chief Suspended After Telling Officers That Late Gay Cop Had Died Of COVID Due To His “Lifestyle”

The Miami Herald reports:

When his officers raised concerns about catching the coronavirus, a South Florida police chief tried minimizing their worries by claiming a Broward County deputy’s COVID-19 death was caused by his “homosexual” lifestyle, the officers alleged.

Chief Dale Engle, the head of the Town of Davie’s police department, made the remarks during an angry tirade against the officers after a patrol briefing on April 7, according to a complaint filed to town administration by a state police union that represents the officers.

Engle was placed on administrative leave Saturday evening “pending further review of allegations,” the town administration said in a statement. The remarks allegedly came four days after BSO Deputy Shannon Bennet, a 12-year veteran at the sheriff’s office, died of COVID-19, the disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

Read the full article. No paywall.

It is with a sad and heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Shannon Bennett due to COVID-19.
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Deputy Bennett served BSO for more than 12 years and was a fine deputy and individual. (1/2) #TeamBSO pic.twitter.com/ywl32BAiAz

— Broward Sheriff (@browardsheriff) April 4, 2020

“I ask that you keep Shannon’s family members in your prayers, but keep Shannon within your heart. His legacy will be carried on in our performance.” – @bsosherifftony #wewillneverforget (2/2)

— Broward Sheriff (@browardsheriff) April 4, 2020