According to Snyder, an Internal Affairs investigation began after Josh West was found to have tested positive for prescribed hydrocodone in his system.
Snyder noted the officer didn’t alert his superiors he had been prescribed the narcotic drug, which could alter his function as a police officer.
That action resulted in the investigation. At this point the finding is that West simply violated a city of Cleveland policy.
West was hired by the city of Cleveland in November 2007.
Hydrocodone is typically prescribed by medical professionals as a pain medication.
“I received information and asked his (West’s) captain to request a urine sample, which he (West) complied (with). The test was positive for hydrocodone,” Snyder said.
“At this point it’s a violation because he didn’t inform his supervisor he was taking hydrocodone. We learned he does have a prescription. We have notified the District Attorney General’s Office of our internal investigation and at this time, it’s only a city policy violation,” Snyder said.
“That is our policy and procedure. Any findings will be handed over to them (DAG’s office) for further review,” he added.
“If an officer is on this type medication, he/she has sick days which can be used until their doctors have released them,” Snyder explained.
Snyder said there are three ways any complaint or investigation is handled.
n Complaints which can be resolved through retraining, counseling, etc., are routed to supervisors.
n Complaints which the facts are not clear on are investigated by Internal Affairs.
n Complaints which may be criminal in nature are turned over to the DAG’s office.
Snyder said Friday afternoon the Internal Affairs investigation should be complete within a week, and any findings will be forwarded as per city procedure.
