Sources: Officer given desk duty in connection to ex-Greensburg police chief’s alleged drug dealing

GREENSBURG, Pa. — A police officer was assigned to desk duty in connection with the investigation into former Greensburg chief Shawn Denning’s alleged drug dealing.

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Target 11 learned the officer was pulled off patrol duties Wednesday, pending the internal investigation into Denning’s case by the city.

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Denning, 41, is facing six drug counts involving meth and cocaine, including aiding and abetting the distribution of the drugs, aiding and abetting the attempted distribution of the drugs, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute.

The city of Greensburg gave Target 11 the following update:

“The City appreciates the patience of our community and dedicated employees as we work through the process of identifying what happened, why it happened, how it was kept hidden, and how we can improve. Our Police Department has the full faith and confidence of the City to perform their duties, keeping the residents safe, deterring crime, and bringing wrongdoers to justice. The City is investigating the complaints that it receives, is assisting all relevant agencies in their investigations, and is evaluating its internal procedures and processes to ensure that the Department regains its prominence as one of the best in the area.  We understand that the recent arrest of the former Chief has made some members of the community question their faith in the Department, but they can rest assured that the City is doing everything it can to regain their trust. We also understand that it may be frustrating to some that we don’t provide contemporaneous updates on every act that we take, but please understand that we cannot comment on ongoing personnel matters and investigations. Releasing information before portions of our review are concluded could be prejudicial and thwart inquiries. However, we can confirm reports that an employee is currently on “desk duty” pending further review. Due to confidentiality requirements, the City cannot further discuss the nature of that employee’s status. The City appreciates everyone’s patience as we do the hard work of holding bad actors accountable and improving the operations of the City and all its departments.”

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