Buffalo Police Lieutenant Demoted for Mishandling Hit-and-Run Case

Internal Affairs investigation finds lieutenant violated department rules in handling case involving Erie County sheriff's narcotics chief

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A Buffalo Police lieutenant has been demoted after an Internal Affairs investigation found she violated multiple department rules in her handling of a high-profile hit-and-run case involving an Erie County sheriff's narcotics chief. The report raises questions about potential preferential treatment and limited cooperation from the Sheriff's Office.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about accountability and transparency within the Buffalo Police Department, as well as the potential for special treatment of law enforcement officials involved in criminal incidents. It also underscores the need for clear policies and procedures to ensure fair and impartial investigations, regardless of the status or position of those involved.

The details

According to the Internal Affairs report, the lieutenant failed to properly document the incident, did not conduct a thorough investigation, and "brought discredit upon the department" in her handling of the case. Another officer was briefly suspended as a result of the investigation. The report indicates there were issues with the Sheriff's Office cooperating fully with the Buffalo Police Department's probe.

  • The hit-and-run incident occurred in July.

The players

Buffalo Police Lieutenant

A Buffalo Police lieutenant who was demoted for mishandling a high-profile hit-and-run case involving an Erie County sheriff's narcotics chief.

Erie County Sheriff's Narcotics Chief

The individual involved in the hit-and-run incident that the Buffalo Police lieutenant mishandled the investigation of.

Buffalo Police Department

The law enforcement agency that conducted the Internal Affairs investigation into the lieutenant's handling of the hit-and-run case.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in Buffalo.”

— Robert Jenkins, Buffalo Resident (Buffalo News)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the individual involved in the hit-and-run to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for the Buffalo Police Department to have clear policies and procedures in place to ensure fair and impartial investigations, regardless of the status or position of those involved. It also raises questions about accountability and transparency within the department, as well as the potential for special treatment of law enforcement officials.