No charges in sexual assault investigation of Des Plaines police party
Des Plaines police officers investigated over allegations of sexual assault during an off-duty party in Hoffman Estates will not be charged.
Hoffman Estates police announced Tuesday that investigators found no evidence that a crime occurred at a house party after a golf outing at the Hilldale Golf Club in June.
Police had been investigating reports that a female officer may have been sexually assaulted at the off-duty gathering. The investigation stemmed from "third-party" allegations, police said.
"After an extensive investigation, it was determined that allegations of a sexual assault were unfounded as there was no evidence to determine that a crime occurred," Hoffman Estates police said.
Now attention turns toward an internal investigation being conducted by Des Plaines.
On Monday, the city council unanimously approved spending up to $50,000 to hire an outside investigative firm to determine whether misconduct or inappropriate behavior occurred.
The firm also will determine whether the city has responded appropriately to previous sexual harassment complaints.
Aldermen who sponsored the proposal said the city needs to "clear the air" as rumors about the allegations have spread.
Des Plaines Police Chief Bill Kushner said his department's internal investigation will determine whether officers violated any policies or procedures at the party, which could result in disciplinary action.
"While I'm very grateful for (no charges), that's not going to preclude us from doing an investigation into the conduct at the golf outing and party," Kushner said. "I want to make sure every leaf is lifted an no stone is unturned."
Hoffman Estates police also said the department found no criminal conduct related to damage of golf course property at the June outing.