Fired Norman Police Officers File Grievances

NORMAN, Okla. -- Three Norman police officers fired for allegedly using illegal steroids have filed grievances with the city manager.

Former Officers Timothy Gibson, Chris Holden and Joshua Keith filed the grievances after Police Chief Phil Cotten denied their requests to be reinstated or allowed to resign, Norman City Attorney Jeff Bryant said.

Gibson, Holden, Keith and Kyle Sherman were fired Oct. 22. The only one facing criminal charges is Sherman, who is accused of distributing a controlled and dangerous substance.

Gibson said the three other officers filed grievances because they felt they were terminated without just cause.

"We all admitted to our mistakes," Gibson said. "We were honest and truthful and we cooperated. We were guilty of what we did."

Gibson said he thought the other officers were fired because of the charge against Sherman.

"We were basically all lumped together with him," Gibson said. "This is the first time any of us three have ever been in trouble."

Cotten said the evidence against the other officers is similar to what was presented against Sherman and he felt it would have been unjust to treat Gibson, Holden and Keith differently than Sherman.

"I wouldn't have terminated these guys if I didn't feel like it was my last resort," Cotten said.

City Manager Brad Gambill must respond in writing to the grievances within seven days. If he denies the grievances, the officers can request arbitration where a neutral third party would determine whether the officers deserve their jobs back or some other settlement, Bryant said.

"They can ask for whatever remedy they feel they deserve," Bryant said.

Gibson said he though he'd be able to get another job if his termination was overturned and he was allowed to resign instead.

Fired Norman Police Officers File Grievances

City Manager Must Respond Within 7 Days