Report: Internal Probe Triggers Firing of Petaluma Cop

A two-month internal investigation of veteran police Lt. Dave Sears has culminated with the veteran Petaluma cop's firing.

Sears confirmed his dismissal in an interview with the Santa Rosa Press Democrat.

“At this point all I can tell you is that we are disappointed it has come to this,” he told the publication.

Sears' firing hasn't been officially announced, the report said. Petaluma's official city website still has Sears listed as a current member of the force.

Sears had been on paid leave since June. It is not clear what led to his dismissal, the report said.

“I have no more knowledge of anything that transpired that led to this than anyone else,” Petaluma Mayor David Glass told the Press Democrat.

Sears was hired by the Petaluma Police Department in 1999 after serving 12 years on the Benecia force. He has worked in patrol, criminal investigations, SWAT, Field Training Program, and Administrative Services.

His current responsibilities as Administrative Services Lieutenant includes supervising the Communication Center and Records Department. He is also responsible for the police budget and evaluating claims and risk management.

Sears was a former captain and a candidate to succeed former Chief Steve Hood after his 2009 retirement. He was demoted to lieutenant in a move that cost him $35,000 in annual salary.