La Verne Police Department faces scrutiny over McGowan's misconduct and decertification hearing

In a significant hearing held by the Tennessee POST Commission on August 29, 2025, troubling allegations against former La Verne Police Officer Mister McGowan were brought to light, revealing a pattern of misconduct within the department. The hearing, led by investigator Mister Patton, focused on accusations of inappropriate relationships and workplace violence involving multiple officers.

Mister McGowan's involvement began when he approached the mayor regarding concerns about hiring practices within the police department. This led to a meeting with the HR representative, where he presented evidence of inappropriate text messages exchanged with Officer Hall, the subject of the allegations. The messages included explicit content, and it was revealed that Mister McGowan had sent these messages while Hall was a candidate for the department.

During the internal affairs interview, Mister McGowan initially denied sending inappropriate messages but later admitted to the allegations after further questioning. Additionally, he faced a workplace violence charge for an incident where he allegedly placed his hands around the neck of an HR employee. This incident, along with the inappropriate communications, contributed to his termination from the La Verne Police Department.

The hearing also highlighted the complexities of the investigation, including differing perceptions of the initial meeting between Mister McGowan and the HR director. While McGowan believed he was discussing hiring practices, the HR director was focused on the allegations against him. The defense argued that the workplace violence incident was exaggerated and not formally reported by the alleged victim.

As the commission deliberates on the evidence presented, a decision on Mister McGowan's decertification is anticipated. The outcome of this hearing could have lasting implications for the integrity of the La Verne Police Department and the standards upheld by law enforcement in Tennessee.