Karl Fields testifies in Judge Don Poole’s courtroom in Chattanooga in this Oct. 24, 2014, file photo.EXPLANATION OF SUSTAINED VIOLATIONS
Neglect of Duty: Improper performance of, or a failure to perform, a required duty shall be deemed neglect of duty. Unbecoming conduct: Employees shall conduct themselves at all times — both on and off duty — in such a manner as to reflect favorably on the Department. Conduct unbecoming a public employee includes conduct that is unlawful and/or brings the Department into disrepute, reflects discredit upon the employee as a member of the Department or impairs the operation or efficiency of the Department or officer. Source: Chattanooga Police Department Policy Manual
Chattanooga police detective Karl Fields was fired Wednesday, seven months after allegations surfaced that he made sexual advances toward a female rape victim in a case he worked.
After investigating the accusations, police Chief Fred Fletcher said Fields neglected his duty and acted in an unbecoming manner.
Fields is the third Chattanooga police officer and second detective to be fired this week on misconduct charges.
In Fields’ case, the police department launched an internal investigation last year after a woman gave authorities hundreds of text messages between her and a man who identified himself as Fields. In the messages, Fields flirts with the woman, flatters her, offers her rides and asks her to send naked photos. They exchanged the messages between June and August 2014.