Montana’s agency responsible for certifying law enforcement officials alleges a former Whitefish Police chief engaged in a wide range of misconduct. The Flathead Beaconfirst reported the allegations.
The 12-page complaint from the standards and training bureau within the state justice department alleges former Police Chief Bill Dial engaged in, condoned and/or failed to disclose acts of corruption.
The Flathead Beacon obtained documents outlining the allegations that Dial, who abruptly retired earlier this month, colluded with the head of a local security firm. The firm is under federal indictment for money laundering and wire fraud among other charges.
The Montana Public Safety Officer Standards and Training Bureau, or POST, says Dial and the security firm CEO Matt Marshall conspired to entrap a Whitefish Police Department investigator. The Flathead Beacon reports that was in an effort to gain leverage over a prominent Whitefish philanthropist.
POST also alleges that Dial gave Marshall access to police records and gave him a chance to confront suspects who allegedly assaulted his family.
According to the complaint, Dial has until Sept. 29 to respond to the allegations or voluntarily surrender his law enforcement credentials.
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