NASHVILLE, Tenn. — After years of advocacy and a push from the Nashville Community Review Board (CRB), the Metro Nashville Police Department (MNPD) has revised its sexual misconduct and harassment policy, adopting a clearer, more defined stance on these critical issues. The policy shift follows years of efforts by Silent No Longer TN, an organization dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual assault.
In August 2024, the CRB approved a proposal calling for a zero-tolerance sexual misconduct policy, urging the MNPD to adopt it. Although the MNPD had previously stated that it already maintained a zero-tolerance policy, the Metro Council took a further step in September by passing a resolution that called for the department to adopt and enforce the CRB’s proposal.
“We owe it, as citizens of Nashville, to ensure the safety of those who risk their lives every day to keep us and our families safe,” said Greta McClain, founder and director of Silent No Longer TN. McClain, whose organization has fought for years to bring attention to sexual violence and misconduct within law enforcement, added, “Failure to do that not only puts those officers in jeopardy, but it also puts the rest of us in danger as well.”
Silent No Longer TN, a group formed by survivors, victims, and allies, has been pushing for changes to MNPD’s policies since 2020. McClain introduced the policy to the Police Policy Commission in September of that year. Despite significant resistance, the organization remained steadfast in its pursuit of reform.
“The process toward this policy’s implementation has been filled with resistance,” Silent No Longer TN stated in a press release. However, the organization expressed disappointment in the MNPD’s decision to reject portions of the CRB’s policy proposal, specifically regarding oversight and accountability measures. This decision comes on the heels of a $300,000 sexual harassment lawsuit settlement in August 2023, which added further urgency to the call for policy reform.
While Silent No Longer TN emphasized the need for swift action, they acknowledged the recent policy changes as a step in the right direction. The revised policy now includes a clear definition of sexual misconduct within the Harassment and Discrimination policy and strengthens the department’s guidelines on how to address complaints of harassment or discrimination. Additionally, the policy language now firmly articulates the department’s commitment to a zero-tolerance approach to sexual harassment and discrimination.
The CRB also recommended the inclusion of a section outlining victims’ rights, which includes providing resources and support for survivors of misconduct. Metro Human Resources (HR) will also ensure that both victims and respondents receive information about available resources, with documentation integrated into investigative procedures.
CRB Executive Director Jill Fitcheard expressed optimism about the policy revision, calling it a vital step toward creating a safe and respectful environment within the MNPD. “We are confident that this policy, with its clear guidelines and robust enforcement mechanisms, will contribute significantly to preventing and addressing sexual misconduct,” Fitcheard stated, noting that ongoing collaboration with MNPD will be essential for the policy’s success.
MNPD Chief John Drake also supported the policy changes, noting that the department regularly reviews its procedures to ensure they align with best practices. He added that the policy revision is informed by documents from organizations like the International Association of Chiefs of Police and End Violence Against Women International.
“We appreciate any opportunity to appropriately strengthen our policies, especially in areas related to prohibitions concerning harassment and sexual misconduct,” Drake said.
Mayor Freddie O’Connell also praised the cooperation between the MNPD and the CRB in addressing this important issue. In a press release, O’Connell expressed gratitude for the department’s commitment to improving its policies and fostering a safer environment for both officers and the community.
The revision of the sexual misconduct and harassment policy marks a significant shift in the MNPD’s approach to handling these serious concerns. While challenges remain, the policy change reflects a growing commitment to addressing sexual misconduct within law enforcement and ensuring that officers and community members alike feel safe and supported.
