Officer Handler of K-9 Unit Resigns: Claims Sex Harassment

A West Union police officer, who is also the handler of the department's K-9, has resigned over an allegation of sexual harassment from her superior.

Officer Sierra Fox claims that West Union Police Chief Paul Bechtold, treated her with less respect than male officers, made derogatory comments about women, witnessed but ignored sexual harassment in the department, and also attempted to retaliate against her.

Fox says she was given 6 write-ups, and told to either resign or be fired.

The West Union City Council met last night (Monday)(April 15) and discussed Fox's termination. There was concern that later this week, Fox will have to turn in city property in her possession, including the police department's K-9, named Xena. Those in attendance at the meeting, were concerned about what would happen to Xena; a police committee is scheduled to meet to talk about the future of the department's K-9 unit.

Fox has filed a complaint with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission concerning her dismissal.

The West Union City Council voted to accept Fox's resignation, but a motion to advertise hiring a new full time police officer was tabled.