Report: Chief Zikuski’s Conduct “Brought Discredit” to BPD

An investigation into former Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski's actions related to an off-duty incident involving his girlfriend concluded he violated departmental policies.

Zikuski's resignation from the position of chief was effective last Monday. Mayor Jared Kraham released a report of a review conducted by a law firm hired by the city was released late Thursday afternoon.

Zikuski had been on paid administrative leave since July 20, two days after he was present during a dispute in Johnson City. His girlfriend argued with two teenagers at a home next to her Ackley Avenue residence. Video of part of the incident was posted to social media.

The investigation conducted by the LippesMathias law firm determined the police chief's conduct from July 18 through the end of the investigation violated "numerous" Binghamton Police Department policies and "brought discredit to the City and BPD."

The report noted Zikuski initially minimized the dispute to the mayor, contending it was not a "big deal." He initially claimed he had not contacted any law enforcement about what had occurred when he in fact had called Johnson City Police Chief Brent Dodge. Zikuski sent photos and text messages to Dodge.

Zikuski also decided to "wipe clean" everything on his city-issued cellphone and iPad to delete information on the devices.

The report noted Zikuski did not provide notification to the city of a change of residence as required after he moved to his girlfriend's Johnson City home.

Zikuski has not commented publicly about the July 18 incident or his decision to retire while the investigation was being conducted.

In a brief statement when he released the report, Mayor Kraham said the review and Zikuski's "resignation this week brings closure to this matter."

John Ryan is serving as acting Binghamton Police Chief.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com or call (607) 545-2250. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.