Can charges and the Commissioner's internal hearing decision be removed from a member's personnel file?

The decision that charges and the Commissioner's internal hearing decision cannot be removed from a member's personnel file underscores the principle of transparency and accountability within the organization. Maintaining these records provides a permanent, official account of an individual’s conduct and any disciplinary actions that have been taken, which can be important for future references in terms of evaluating performance, making promotion decisions, or assessing suitability for certain roles.

This policy also serves the purpose of deterring misconduct among members, as knowing that past actions are permanently documented can influence behavior. Additionally, it allows for a thorough review of a member's history in the event of future incidents, ensuring that any patterns of behavior are taken into consideration when determining a course of action.

While the alternative options suggest a timeframe for removal, such provisions could potentially undermine the consistent enforcement of standards and the integrity of personnel records, which are intended to reflect a member's entire career accurately. This approach aligns with the broader goals of ensuring fairness and maintaining a high standard of professionalism within the department.