WEST SENECA, N.Y. — A West Seneca Police officer has been suspended following an incident last week at Planned Parenthood in West Seneca.
The police department posted on Facebook Monday saying, "The West Seneca Police Department is aware of some second-hand information circulating on social media regarding a call we were dispatched to on Friday August 14th, 2020 at the Planned Parenthood clinic located in our town."
West Seneca Police says allegations were made regarding the demeanor of an officer who responded to the situation on Friday. The department went on to say that they are conducting a joint investigation with the administrative staff from Planned Parenthood.
The officer has been suspended from duty pending the outcome of the investigation, according to police. No other information has been provided at this time.
Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York issues this statement about the incident:
On August 14, an individual arrived at Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York’s (PPCWNY) West Seneca health center and demanded to speak to his partner who he believed was being treated at the health center. The individual’s behavior became a threat to our patients and staff, and he was asked to leave. After leaving, the individual attempted to re-enter the health center, and kicked the door several times. Planned Parenthood staff called 911 and an officer with the West Seneca Police Department responded to the call. Upon seeing a Black Lives Matter sign in the window, the officer asked if the sign belonged to Planned Parenthood. When this was confirmed, the officer berated staff for PPCWNY’s support of the movement and left after refusing to respond to the call.
Planned Parenthood of Central and Western New York is in communication with the appropriate officials at West Seneca Police department, and at this point in time is satisfied with their swift disciplinary action. We understand the officer in question has been suspended pending an investigation into the incident.
Planned Parenthood stands in solidarity with Black Lives Matter because the movement demands change and strives to dismantle systemic racism. We know that systemic racism permeates every American institutionꟷthe criminal justice system, health care, housing, and more. The foundation of this country was built on systemic racism and the free labor of enslaved Black people. PPCWNY will continue to demand accountability, justice and an end to the inequity that continues to define every moment of life for Black America.
West Seneca's supervisor, Gary Dickson has released a statement:
“The West Seneca Police Department has partnered with Planned Parenthood to conduct a full investigation into alleged misconduct by a police officer. While the investigation is ongoing, the officer in question has been suspended. Eyewitness accounts and all other pieces of evidence are currently being collected and reviewed. I have complete confidence in the ability of our Police Department to investigate the matter thoroughly. If warranted, at the conclusion of the investigation, appropriate action will be taken. Until then, I will have no further comment on the situation. Thank you.”
