Peterson's cop son suspended 8 days
OAK BROOK | Punished for driving squad car, wearing uniform to testify in dad's case
Drew Peterson's police officer son said he was never warned not to drive his squad car or wear his uniform when he was called to testify before the Will County grand jury investigating the disappearance of his father's fourth wife.
Despite his explanation, the Oak Brook police and fire commission Wednesday night voted to suspend Stephen Peterson without pay for eight days from his duties as a patrolman in the western suburb.
(Scott Stewart/Sun-Times)
Commissioners backed Oak Brook Police Chief Thomas Sheahan, who sought disciplinary action against the 28-year-old Peterson for violating departmental policy by driving a marked squad car to Joliet for his Dec. 13 grand jury appearance. Sheahan also contended Peterson's actions that day, which also included wearing his uniform, discredited the department.
''His poor judgment in using this vehicle brought more negative attention to this department,'' Sheahan told commissioners, who deliberated about 45 minutes before deciding to suspend Peterson.
The three-year police veteran reacted stoically to the ruling, but his attorney said he may appeal.
''We're a little disappointed. We hoped he would be exonerated,'' said attorney Tamara Cummings.
Peterson testified that he hadn't been told to dress in civilian clothes or drive his own car for grand jury appearances until after his Dec. 13 testimony, which drew extensive media coverage.
''I was never told I couldn't take the squad car or my uniform,'' Peterson said.
Drew Peterson has been labeled a suspect in the Oct. 28 disappearance of his wife Stacy.