Press Release: Williamsport Police Officer Fired

On August 24, 2017, Cpl. Houseknecht was advised he was the subject of an internal investigation and was placed on paid administrative leave. Cpl. Houseknecht remained on paid administrative [eave while the City conducted an internal investigation. On April 2, 2018, Cpl. Houseknecht received a notice of discipline from Chief of Police Young advising the Chief recommended he be suspended for a period of thirty (30) days and be demoted to the rank of patrol officer. Cpl. Houseknecht contested the discipline and requested a hearing before City Council. On June 26, 2018, a hearing was held before the four members of City Council that attended the hearing. On July 19, 2018, contrary to the recommendation of Chief of Police Young, those four members voted to terminate Cpl. Houseknecht.

It is important to note that Cpl. Houseknecht has been charged with approximately 30 separate minor policy violations occurring over an 8 month period regarding the performance of his duties as a newly promoted corporal. None of the charges arise to the level of criminal misconduct, create civil liability or, standing alone, warrant serious discipline. Cpl. Houseknecht and the FOP will now proceed to arbitration to have the grievance resolved and to have Cpl. Houseknecht reinstated to his former position with the Williamsport Bureau of Police.

FOP Lodge 29 President
Steven Helm