FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

RIVIERA BEACH WILL REINSTATE FIRED OFFICER, REQUESTS THIRD-PARTY INVESTIGATION INTO COUNCILMAN’S DETAINMENT

RIVIERA BEACH, FL. (Sept. 9, 2021) – The City of Riviera Beach is aware of the detainment and release of Councilman Douglas Lawson by Riviera Beach Police stemming from an alleged domestic-related incident. 

In light of the circumstances, City Manager Jonathan Evans has requested an independent investigation by a third-party firm with a background in law enforcement policy and procedure to determine if proper protocols were followed and if any unlawful acts occurred.

In addition, the City will reinstate the employment of Captain Rochelet Commond, who will be placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. 

“The City of Riviera Beach takes this incident very seriously,” Evans said. “We want the independent firm to examine the incident from every angle to determine what actually transpired.”

Preliminary information indicates that Riviera Beach Police briefly detained Councilman Lawson on Aug. 29 following a call for service involving an allegation of a domestic dispute. He was released from custody after Chief Nathan E. Osgood determined that there was no probable cause to detain him. 

Captain Commond’s employment was terminated on Sept. 2 after the City was informed that he failed to file a probable cause affidavit with the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, which was a direct order by Chief Osgood. The City was later informed that he filed the affidavit as directed.

“The City of Riviera Beach is committed to learning the truth about what happened here and we will share that information with our community as soon as the investigation is concluded,” Evans said.

Media Contact:

Nicole Rodriguez

Sr. Communications Specialist

NRodriguez@rivierabeach.org

O: 561-812-6605

C: 561-281-3422