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The decision to suspend Sullivan last week left other local law enforcement officials wondering about the reason behind the move. The reasons remain unknown, however, in the report, Sullivan said it will be clear when he formally responds.
"(The board's accusations) will become public when I file my formal response, so that there can be no doubt that the board's charges are completely without merit," Sullivan said, per the statement, lohud.com reported.
He further denied "evidence of any wrongdoing on my part or of any conduct unbecoming an officer," according to lohud.com.
A hearing officer must be appointed in 35 days from Wednesday when Sullivan was suspended, the report said.
"This is a tough one, and very troubling" said Spring Valley Police Chief Paul Modica, also the Rockland Police Chiefs Association president. "I hope this is not politically motivated. I have known Chief Sullivan for a long time and he is a man of integrity who stands fast for what is right and won't be bullied."
Clarkstown officials are not commenting about the board's move to suspend Sullivan, said lohud.com.
Sullivan, who started his career as a New York City police officer 32 years ago, joined the Clarkstown Police Department in 1987. He was promoted to sergeant in 1995, lieutenant in 2000, captain in 2009 and chief in 2011.
"I have worked hand-in-hand with Chief Sullivan and I can't say enough good things about his character and how he operates," said Chief William Barbera, of the Rockland County Sheriff's Office Police Division. "Chief Sullivan is a great man who does an outstanding job."
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