DC police captain suspended for sending ‘insensitive’ email to officers

WASHINGTON ( DC News Now ) — A Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) captain was placed on administrative leave after he sent an “unprofessional” email to officers in the Fifth District.

Officials said that a police captain was placed on administrative leave after he sent an email overnight to officers offering overtime.

In a statement to DC News Now, MPD Police Chief Pamela Smith said she was “disheartened” to learn that the captain, a member of MPD “in a leadership role,” decided to send an “insensitive message.”

As MPD’s first Chief Equity Officer, I know firsthand the investments we have made and continue to make throughout the department. We conduct Voices Listening Tour to ensure every member’s voice are heard. Since its inception in 2022, we have engaged over 1,700 members in the Voices Tours and DEI trainings.  In addition, DEI training is held for new recruits and professional staff, promotional training, and during Command Staff Roundtables.

I cannot emphasize enough this email does not reflect the values of our department or our commitment to respect and professionalism in the workplace. This type of unprofessional behavior will not be tolerated.

As a department, we are continually reinforcing our commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful work environment. All MPD members participate in cultural awareness training during their time at the academy and as part of their ongoing training. This year, MPD has conducted numerous trainings that cover cultural awareness.

Metropolitan Police Department Police Chief Pamela Smith

Smith said MPD will be reviewing its communications standards and addressing this incident.

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