"We weren't asking for a criminal investigation," Rieckhof told the Daily Pilot after the meeting. "What we were asking for is, did he abuse his authority? The investigation, as far as I'm concerned, was not transparent. It was not a complete investigation.
"I know for a fact that witnesses statements were being delivered at 4:30 this afternoon and they had already concluded their findings. How do you conclude an investigation without having all the facts in front of you, and why cover it up and not release the entire report for the public to review?"
Righeimer could not be reached for comment.
Barlow said that while police may have perceived Righeimer's approach as an attempt to close down the checkpoint, she could not determine his intent.
"Is she telling me that all four officers got it wrong, and they didn't even take into account additional statements that were given this evening?" Rieckhof said. "How is that a proper investigation? And to not release the investigation to the public — it reeks of a cover-up."
Councilwoman Katrina Foley challenged Barlow to provide the public with details on the basis of her conclusion.
"The factual statement that someone ordered someone to shut down the checkpoint was a perception, not a fact?" Foley asked.
Barlow said she could not provide any details of the investigation before getting permission from the council to disclose the privileged information.
The investigative report, including witness statements and police reports of the account, is exempt from public access and would not be released unless the City Council made an exception.
Councilman Gary Monahan said he did not see why an exception would be made to release the report.
