A Columbus Division of Police internal investigation has concluded its inquiry into an investigation ordered by Deputy Chief Tim Becker regarding an incident at the Sirens Gentlemen’s Club on July 11-12.
The investigation included 19 individual interviews, as well as the review of more than 11,000 emails, and over 30 hours of video. Stephanie Clifford, who was arrested in the incident, and her counsel were invited to participate in the investigation and provide information but chose not to take part.
The Internal Affairs investigators distilled the questions posed by Becker into three allegations and have made recommendations based on evidence collected.
- Allegation 1: The arrest of Stephanie Clifford (aka Stormy Daniels) was pre-planned by Lt. Ronald Kemmerling, Sgt. Scott Soha, Officer Steven Rosser, Officer Whitney Lancaster, and Officer Shana Keckley far in advance of her appearance in Columbus. Internal Affairs found this allegation unfounded.
- Allegation 2: The arrest of Stephanie Clifford was pre-planned by Lt. Kemmerling, Sgt. Soha, Officer Rosser, Officer Lancaster, Officer Keckley, and Officer Praither for political motivation or reason. Internal Affairs found this allegation was not sustained.
- Allegation 3: Officer Rosser, Officer Lancaster, Officer Keckley, and Officer Praither made an improper arrest of Stephanie Clifford. Internal Affairs found this allegation was sustained.
This investigation will now be forwarded to the Narcotics Bureau Commander and the Investigative Subdivision Deputy Chief for review and comments. Recommendations and findings on these allegations, as well as any misconduct outside of these allegations that may have been discovered during the investigation, will be ruled on by Becker.
Due to ongoing civil litigation against the city filed by Clifford, the Division will not conduct interviews or make any additional statements regarding the investigation or review process.