Ambiguity Of Grievance

I have read and thoroughly reviewed the grievance you submitted, along with reviewing relevant departmental policy, HR policy, and completed interviews with affected departmental employees. There are several concerns you raise in your grievance that I will address throughout my response. The crux of your grievance revolves around Captain Davis’ decision to transfer Detective Tanner to a vacant position on the Criminal Intelligence Squad (CIS). The concerns communicated in your grievance relate to the process and how the decision was made by Captain Davis.

You referenced multiple potential policy violations in your grievance. Upon reviewing HR policy B-22 Conflict of Interest, I have concluded this policy is not relevant as it pertains
Upon reviewing the policy there is some ambiguity around the transfer process and who it states is responsible for transfers at each level of supervision in the department. Chief Scott is the approving authority for all intra-divisional transfers, the bureau commanders are approving authority for inter-bureau transfers and the commanding officers are approving authority for interdivisional transfers. The directive then outlines the process for which an announcement is made through the Resource Management Division (RMD), transfer forms collected, a selection process held, and a decision made regarding the selection for transfer. The ambiguity in the policy makes it potentially seem this process must be followed for all transfers when in actuality it is only used for intra-divisional transfers. The department has not utilized this process for interdivisional transfers and it is common knowledge and practice that Commanding Officers have the sole discretion, with Bureau Commander’s approval, to make transfers within their respective
Upon speaking with Captain Davis it was determined that a familial relationship does exist between him and Detective Tanner, they are classified as second cousins. Per HR policy this relationship would fall under the “Other Family” definition. Procedures further outlined in the policy directs the employee to notify his supervisor of the relationship and for the Department to collaborate with HR to determine if their needs to be a restriction on the position or job assignment. I contacted HR and explained the circumstances around the grievance and sought guidance on any recommended position restrictions or job assignments. It was recommended due to the circumstances and familial relationship that Captain Davis defer any transfer, promotional, or disciplinary decisions to his supervisor, Commanding Officer of the Investigative Bureau, Deputy Chief James. It was further recommended that both Captain Davis and Detective Tanner meet with departmental HR representatives to clarify their roles and responsibilities as it relates to their familial and working