Day two of the hearing for Hortonville Police Chief Michael Sullivan wrapped up Thursday night, as Chief Sullivan himself took to the microphone for the first time.
The hearing was to address allegations of misconduct on Sullivan, including repeated use of vulgar language, using inappropriate nicknames, threatening officers with punishment if they filed any grievances, the disclosure of confidential information, and also the misuse of a law enforcement database.
The allegations had forced the village to place Sullivan on paid administrative leave. Thursday night, Sullivan was willing to admit he’s made mistakes in the past, which he regrets, however he wasn’t willing to admit to what witnesses had alleged against him.
After the controversy surrounding his behavior, Sullivan still believes he could successfully lead the village as Chief.
Sullivan’s attorney asked him, “Do you think you can still effectively lead this department for the village of Hortonville?”
“Yes I do,” Sullivan responded confidently. “I know the mistakes I’ve made. The mistakes will be corrected. We can move on from there. I’ve led them for this long and I know I can lead them through on and out from here.”
With the hearing concluded after two nights of testimony, it’s now in the hands of the Hortonville Police and Fire Commission where they will meet and deliberate.
No date has been given regarding when they will present their decision, although Sullivan’s lawyer believes it could take anywhere from four to six weeks before a conclusion is reached.