CLEARWATER, Fla. – Clearwater Police Officer Scott Penna has been terminated effective today, following the conclusion of an administrative investigation that revealed multiple policy violations.
This action comes in the wake of criminal charges filed against Penna in June, stemming from allegations of workers’ compensation and pension fraud.
Background on the Case
On June 20, 2023, Penna was arrested and charged with grand theft, scheme to defraud, and pension fraud. The charges were the result of an investigation that began after Penna, who had been with the department since 2013, applied for a disability pension citing limitations from a 2023 on-duty injury.
Read: Clearwater Man Arrested For Online Solicitation Of A ’14-Year-Old Girl’
“As soon as we became aware of the potential fraud, we immediately launched a criminal investigation and internal investigation,” Police Chief Eric Gandy said.
The city’s Risk Management Department conducted an investigation into Penna’s claim, which found evidence contradicting his reported disability. Surveillance footage showed Penna engaging in activities like driving and weightlifting, behaviors inconsistent with his alleged limitations.
Clearwater Police Chief Eric Gandy expressed his disappointment with Penna’s actions, highlighting the impact on officers who genuinely need disability benefits and the taxpayers who fund the system.
Penna was initially placed on administrative leave in June pending the internal investigation, which has now concluded with his termination.
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