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Charges filed against Ambridge police chief

AMBRIDGE, Pa. — Charges have just been filed against the Ambridge police chief.

James Mann is facing charges including theft by deception, false insurance claim, obstruction of law and harassment.

According to a criminal complaint, Pennsylvania State Police allege James Mann threatened and intimidated officers under his watch. Ten police officers spoke with state police, reporting threats and harassment by the chief, according to the complaint.

RELATED: Police chief placed on administrative leave, under investigation

State police also said the chief was off on disability for a surgery, but continued to work for another agency and collect a paycheck. He worked 42-and-a-half hours, which totaled a little less than $3,000.

The borough council unanimously voted to put Mann on administrative leave in April because of a state police investigation.

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Mayor Dave Drewnowski, who took office in January, and by mid-February, officers had made him aware of their allegations, and he contacted state police.

"I wish Jimmy the best. He’s a good police officer. What can I say?" Drewnowski said.

According to the criminal complaint, officers told state police Mann said things to them like, "I’m going to cut the cancer from the department," "I’m a caged animal" and "I’m firing everyone." Another allegation is that he verbally assaulted and poked one of the officers in the chest.

Mann's attorney, Steve Colafella, said Mann is being falsely accused by people with axes to grind.

"James Mann is one of the proudest, most dedicated police officers that I’ve dealt with in my legal career," he said. "It's a pleasure to stand here next to him. It’s going to be a greater pleasure to watch them try to prove these ridiculous allegations when we go to court."

 

Cox Media Group

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