Investigator McGowan Defends Conduct Amid Allegations in La Verne Police Department Inquiry

The Tennessee POST Commission held a formal hearing on August 29, 2025, focusing on allegations involving the La Verne Police Department and the conduct of its officers. Central to the discussions were the hiring and promotion practices related to the now-departed police chief and various allegations against officers, particularly concerning Mr. McGowan and Ms. Hall.

During the hearing, Mr. McGowan defended his actions, asserting that he had been transparent and cooperative during investigations. He presented evidence from his phone to counter claims made against him, emphasizing that he had not deleted any messages, which he argued demonstrated good faith. In contrast, Mr. Patton, who was also present, suggested that Mr. McGowan had been dishonest, a claim that Mr. McGowan strongly refuted.

The hearing also addressed the characterization of Mr. McGowan's behavior during a formal interview with the La Verne Police Department. While he was described as uncooperative and aggressive, Mr. McGowan argued that he was merely defensive in response to being accused of lying. He maintained that his demeanor was a natural reaction to the interrogation context.

Concerns were raised about the thoroughness of the investigation into the allegations against Mr. McGowan, particularly regarding the credibility of witnesses and the lack of corroborating evidence. Mr. McGowan pointed out that no reports were made at the time of the alleged incidents, questioning the validity of the claims against him.

The discussions highlighted a broader desire among the commission members and the community to resolve the ongoing issues within the La Verne Police Department, which have been described as "ugly" and "nasty." The commission aims to close this chapter and restore trust in the department.

As the hearing concluded, the significance of the evidence presented and the credibility of the witnesses remained central to the commission's deliberations, with the next steps in the investigation yet to be determined.