Arbitrator Upholds Police Officer's Demotion and Suspension

Grievance denied due to excessive time spent in dispatch instead of patrolling

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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An arbitrator has denied a grievance filed by a police officer's union challenging the City of Columbia's decision to demote and suspend the officer for spending 25-30% of his working hours in dispatch instead of patrolling. While the arbitrator found the city violated certain procedures, the evidence of the officer's misconduct was deemed overwhelming.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between police departments, unions, and city administrations over disciplinary actions and performance standards. It also raises questions about how to balance officer workload and duties in a way that ensures public safety while respecting labor rights.

The details

The grievant police officer was demoted and given a five-day suspension by the City of Columbia for spending a significant portion of his work hours in dispatch instead of patrolling. Despite finding the city violated certain protocols, the arbitrator ruled the evidence of the officer's misconduct, including failure to complete reports on time and inadequate self-initiated work, justified the disciplinary actions.

  • The grievance was filed in early 2026.

The players

E. Frank Cornelius

The arbitrator who denied the police officer's grievance against demotion and suspension.

Illinois FOP Labor Council

The union that filed the grievance on behalf of the police officer.

City of Columbia

The municipality that demoted and suspended the police officer.

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What they’re saying

“The evidence of the grievant's misconduct was overwhelming, particularly considering his failure to complete reports on time, inadequate self-initiated work, and pattern of ignoring directives about limiting time in dispatch.”

— E. Frank Cornelius, Arbitrator

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex balance police departments must strike between disciplining officers for performance issues and respecting labor rights, as well as the role of arbitration in resolving such disputes.