City Report Says Ballard Had Pattern Of Sexual Harassment Over Female Trainees; Attorney Says He Looks Forward To Returning To Work

  • Thursday, February 21, 2019

A city report says an instructor over police academies had a pattern of sexual harassment against female cadets.

Two female trainees initially filed the complaint against instructor Ricky Ballard.

Ballard was suspended earlier this month for 160 hours without pay over the sexual allegations.

Four female cadets said they received unwanted hugs from Ballard. They said Ballard offered the cadets an opportunity to take off their shirts after strenuous exercise in hot weather. The report cited flirtatious behavior and inappropriate remarks on the part of the instructor.

It said Ballard sent flowers to one cadet and offered free tickets to others.

Ballard was directed to attend sexual harassment training.

Attorney Stevie Phillips said, "Officer Ricky Ballard has an outstanding record with the Chattanooga Police Department that spans over two decades of service to our community.  Unfortunately, the allegations against him have been referred to as “findings.”  In fact, they are merely allegations and have never been proven in any court of law.  

"After careful review, the Police Department sustained only one violation.  Officer Ballard looks forward to returning to work and the day-to-day demands of his job."

 


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