Police chief suspends officer... again

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WANE) - Fort Wayne police chief Rusty York is defending his recent decision to suspend an officer after he engaged in a sexual activity while on duty.

In May, officer Thomas Andrews was caught performing a sex act on a woman by her significant other. Andrews was on duty. The couple turned him in, which then launched an investigation and resulted in a six month suspension without pay. Andrews will also no longer serve as a K-9 handler.

Chief York described the incident as "a very serious offense."

Andrews has been suspended eight times during his 15 year career.

When asked if he considered firing Andrews, York said he "definitely thought about it."

He says Andrews' previous suspensions were minor -- mostly procedural issues. And this most recent offense didn't involve work, other than Andrews was on the clock when it happened.

"I did glance at his history and I didn't see anything , any glaring serious violation," said York. "I think that this was a very serious offense, but I think this is a very serious consequence."

York says another major mistake by Andrews, would likely result in termination.