MON CITY COP TESTS POSITIVE FOR DRUGS

MONONGAHELA - While the police chief and the mayor aren't talking, the
city's new random drug testing policy for police officers apparently
has snared an offender.

The Valley Independent has learned that one of the city's seven
officers was suspended after failing a random test.

Chief Brian Tempest and Mayor Robert Kepics refused to either confirm
or deny that an officer has been suspended.

However, when asked to comment on the drug-testing policy that Kepics
instituted when he took office in January, the mayor said, "I want the
people to know my officers are clean. We're trying to address the
problem and we are addressing the problem."

When first asked Monday morning if one of his officers is on
suspension because of a failed drug test, Tempest deferred to one of
the city's solicitors, Brad or Keith Bassi.

Brad Bassi said this morning that the city's stance of neither
confirming nor denying a suspension is still in effect.

"Because we have an officers' bill of rights, we are not allowed to
divulge results of any testing, especially when it pertains to
medical," Tempest said.

The bill of rights is part of the police contract negotiated by
Teamsters Local 205.

However, Melissa Melewsky, an attorney with the Pennsylvania
Newspapers Association, said any confidentiality clause between the
police department and the city likely would not prohibit city
officials from disclosing that an officer had been suspended.

Melewsky said in all probability, the only way a violation would occur
is if the city named the officer in question.

Tempest said the police contract calls for the city to give any
employee a "last chance opportunity" before being terminated.

"We have to give anyone an opportunity to seek rehab for any alcohol
or drug problems," Tempest said.

While Tempest and Kepics did not confirm the suspension, both said
they steadfastly support the random testing.

"The mayor instituted the random drug testing program when he took
office, and the program will continue," Tempest said. "I think it is
something needed.

"Prior to the program, in the 20 years I've been on this force, I was
only tested one time."

"Drug testing was part of my campaign," Kepics said of the police test
program. "These officers are out there, day-in and day-out, carrying
weapons to protect the city and its residents.

"I just want to make sure they are drug-free, and I think the public
would be more at ease knowing their officers are drug-free as well."

Tempest said his department, including himself, will be subject to
testing more than once a year.

"There is a cost factor because it costs about $65 every time we
administer a test," Tempest said. "However, Mayor and council have
said they are not worried about cost when it comes to drug testing."