West Union K-9 Handler Resigns; Claims Sex Harassment

A West Union police officer, who is also the handler of the department's K-9, has resigned over an allegation of sexual harassment from her superior.

Officer Sierra Fox claims that West Union Police Chief Paul Bechtold, treated her with less respect than male officers, made derogatory comments about women, witnessed but ignored sexual harassment in the department, and also attempted to retaliate against her.

Fox said she was given six write-ups, and was told to either resign or be fired.

The West Union City Council discussed Fox's termination during Monday's night's meeting. There was concern that later this week, Fox will have to turn in city property that's in her possession, including the police department's K-9, named Xena. Those who attended the meeting voiced concerns about what would happen to Xena; a police committee is scheduled to meet to talk about the future of the department's K-9 unit.

Fox has filed a complaint with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission concerning her dismissal.

The West Union City Council voted to accept Fox's resignation, but a motion to advertise hiring a new full time police officer was tabled.