An Anne Arundel County police officer was suspended for allegedly displaying political propaganda in the rear window of a police cruiser.
A woman complained to the Anne Arundel County Police Department about an Oath Keepers hat she saw displayed in the rear window of the cruiser while it was parked at a Whole Foods' parking lot in Annapolis.
The Oath Keepers are an anti-government group dedicated to upholding the constitution. The group has been denounced by the Anti-Defamation League and others in the past.
AAPD officials told ABC2 News that the department's policy prohibits any display of political propaganda in police vehicles at any time.
"Espousing political ideology while representing the police department is unacceptable behavior and prohibited by our departmental policies," said AACPD Chief Timothy Altomare. "Our citizens need to know when they call the Anne Arundel County Police Department, they will be receiving fair and impartial police services."
The police policy is written as follows in the department's index code:
"So as not to give the public the impression the department endorses or promotes a particular activity, political candidate, or cause, officers are prohibited from using the PPV while engaged in political activities such as setting up signs, and attending rallies, caucuses, promotional events, or fund raisers, etc. Furthermore, no bumper stickers, decals, insignia, banners, or placards of any type may be attached to, or displayed on or within, the PPV without the prior written approval of the Chief of Police. Police organization emblems may be displayed."
The officer has not been identified, but is known to be a 9-year veteran of the force.
The officer has been placed on paid leave and suspension pending an investigation by the department's Office of Professional Standards.
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