The hiring of a former New Orleans police lieutenant by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office has sparked questions after details resurfaced about his previous termination from the New Orleans Police Department.
The controversy intensified after the former officer resigned from his new position just days after public attention focused on his disciplinary record.
Former NOPD Lieutenant Resigns From Sheriff’s Office
Anthony Bakewell, a former lieutenant with the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), resigned from the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office on Thursday night amid growing scrutiny over his employment history.
The resignation came after reports highlighted findings from previous disciplinary proceedings that led to his dismissal from the NOPD.
The case has prompted questions about the hiring process used by the sheriff’s office and whether officials were fully aware of the circumstances surrounding his termination before bringing him on board.
Civil Service Upheld His Termination
According to records obtained by local media, Louisiana Civil Service officials upheld Bakewell’s firing after reviewing allegations of misconduct.
The ruling reportedly found that Bakewell engaged in inappropriate conduct involving a subordinate officer.
Officials concluded that the behavior negatively affected the efficiency and operation of the police department, providing grounds for his termination.
The decision reinforced earlier disciplinary findings made by the NOPD.
S**ual Harassment Allegations Detailed in Ruling
The Civil Service ruling included allegations that Bakewell made inappropriate comments and engaged in unwanted physical contact with a female officer under his supervision.
According to the findings, Bakewell allegedly slapped the officer on the buttocks as she exited an elevator while making an offensive remark.
The ruling also referenced additional comments that were described as inappropriate and derogatory.
Investigators determined that the conduct violated department policies and workplace standards.
The allegations became a key factor in the decision to terminate his employment with the police department.
Questions Surround Sheriff’s Office Hiring Process
Following reports of Bakewell’s employment with the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, attention quickly turned to how the hiring decision was made.
Critics have questioned whether the agency reviewed his disciplinary record before offering him a position.
Officials have not yet publicly clarified what information was considered during the hiring process or whether decision-makers were aware of all findings related to his dismissal from the NOPD.
The sheriff’s office has not released detailed information regarding the circumstances of his resignation.
As a result, questions remain about the screening procedures used for applicants with prior disciplinary histories.
Previous Payroll Violations Also Identified
In addition to the s**ual misconduct findings, records show that Bakewell was previously investigated for payroll-related violations while serving with the New Orleans Police Department.
An internal NOPD investigation conducted in 2021 reportedly found that he violated department policies concerning work hours and compensation.
According to records, investigators alleged that Bakewell claimed to have worked more than the maximum allowable hours in a single day.
The investigation also found allegations that he participated in off-duty detail work while simultaneously claiming to be on duty, a practice commonly referred to as double-dipping.
Those findings added to the concerns surrounding his employment record.
Public Scrutiny Continues
The controversy has generated public discussion about accountability and hiring practices within law enforcement agencies.
Some observers argue that agencies should carefully review prior disciplinary actions before hiring former officers from other departments.
Others are calling for greater transparency regarding the employment histories of individuals placed in positions of public trust.
The case has also renewed debate about how disciplinary records are shared between law enforcement agencies.
Investigation and Review Ongoing
Media organizations continue seeking additional information regarding Bakewell’s hiring and resignation.
Officials have not yet released a full explanation regarding the decision to employ him after his termination from the NOPD.
Further details may emerge as inquiries continue and public records become available.
At this time, no criminal charges related to the allegations discussed in the Civil Service ruling have been reported.
