Fulshear Police Chief Kenny Seymour has been relieved of his duties effective immediately.
What residents need to know
At a Sept. 15 meeting, Fulshear City Council voted unanimously to dismiss Seymour after a third-party investigator found “overwhelming” evidence stemming from an alleged affair Seymour had with a subordinate within the police department.
The city will begin looking for an interim chief and, in the meantime, has appointed City Manager Zach Goodlander to oversee police department operations, while command-level oversight will be assigned to appropriate department leadership.
The details
Although the proceedings could have been held in closed session, Seymour—who has served as police chief since 2011—requested they be held publicly.
Officials with the investigation said it showed Seymour "engaged in a prolonged pattern of deception, financial conflict of interest and direct insubordination."
However, Larry McDougal, Seymour's attorney, said he felt the investigation had issues in scope, evidence and standards.
What they’re saying
In a Sept. 16 statement, city officials said they will not comment on allegations, evidence, witnesses or the specific findings of the review.
“This was not a decision City Council made lightly,” the statement reads. “Council carefully considered the matter following the conclusion of the independent administrative review and takes seriously its responsibility to the residents of Fulshear.”
However, council member Randy Connor said in a statement at the meeting that the decision is not a reflection of the men and women of the Fulshear Police Department.
“It is important that we recognize and support the excellent leadership staff, administrative team and officers who continue to serve our residents with professionalism, dedication and courage,” Connor said.
Going forward
Community Impact will provide updates when further police chief hiring information is available.
