United Federation of Police Officers & Otsego County (NY) Sheriff P.B.A Joint Statement

The United Federation of Police Officers (UFPO) and the Otsego County Sheriff P.B.A (NY) stand in full support of First Sergeant Kris Solovitch of the Otsego County Sheriff’s Department as he faces criminal allegations arising from actions taken in the performance of his duties as a law enforcement officer.

Like every citizen, First Sergeant Solovitch is entitled to the presumption of innocence and the due process protections afforded by our justice system. Based upon our understanding of the circumstances, we believe these allegations are unfounded and the facts will ultimately demonstrate First Sergeant Solovitch acted justly and within the scope of his lawful duties and responsibilities.

The public narrative surrounding this matter has been deeply concerning and highlights one of our nation’s biggest crises when it comes to restoring the ranks and trust of the law enforcement community. The negative rhetoric being directed toward the Otsego County Sheriff’s Department has been unfairly directed at and impacted the dedicated deputies who continue to serve their community with professionalism, integrity, and commitment. It is both disheartening and unjust to see an entire agency and its members drawn into a narrative based upon the actions and allegations surrounding one individual not referenced in this letter.

We remain confident the truth will come to light and First Sergeant Solovitch will be afforded the fair and impartial process he deserves. We have faith he will ultimately be vindicated.

Unfortunately, this situation appears to reflect a troubling trend in which good officers are increasingly subjected to scrutiny and targeting despiteacting in good faith and in accordance within the scope of their duties. Law enforcement professionals shouldn’t be forced to fear criminal prosecution simply for carrying out their responsibilities when those actions are lawful, reasonable, and undertaken in service to their communities.

First Sergeant Solovitch’s record speaks for itself. Before serving the residents of Otsego County for more than two decades as a law enforcement officer, he honorably served our nation as a veteran. His longstanding commitment to public service, both in uniform and in law enforcement, is deserving of recognition and respect.

The United Federation of Police Officers and the Otsego County Sheriff P.B.A proudly stands with First Sergeant Solovitch and with the members of the Otsego County Deputy Sheriff’s Police Benevolent Association. We will continue to support our brothers and sisters in law enforcement and advocate for fairness, accountability, and due process for all.

Respectfully,

United Federation of Police Officers & Otsego County Sheriff P.B.A