Public commenter tells Manchester council of years-long bullying and misconduct inside police department

Shelby Pierce, a resident who identified herself during the council’s public-input period, told the Manchester City Council that her husband, a longtime former Manchester police officer, experienced years of targeted bullying, theft of personal items and mocking that she described as malicious rather than joking.

"There is no other word to describe what has been happening within the department for years," Pierce said during her five-minute public-comment slot, listing examples she said included stealing and hiding personal items, throwing belongings in mud, and placing faces on sexually explicit photos.

Pierce said she had filed complaints that were not addressed and that the unresolved conduct contributed to her husband’s decision to leave after 12 years of service. She asked the mayor and city manager for a follow-up conversation and said she had previously submitted a letter that had not received a response.

Mayor (speaking after the comment) acknowledged receipt of materials and noted the city had received Pierce’s letter. The mayor said the city had been made aware of some concerns and thanked her for the comments; the mayor did not describe any specific investigatory or disciplinary steps on the record.

The council did not take formal action during the public-comment period; city rules noted to speakers that the council cannot take formal action at that time on subjects not on the agenda. Pierce requested a follow-up meeting before leaving the chamber.

Next steps: Pierce asked for a direct follow-up with city officials. The meeting record shows the council received her letter; no formal investigation outcome, disciplinary action or staff direction regarding the allegations was recorded in the meeting minutes.