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Venice Police Conclude Inquiry Into Officers' Behavior

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By KIM HACKETT, Sarasota Herald Tribune

Published: February 21, 2008

VENICE - VENICE - One By KIM HACKETT, Sarasota Herald Tribune officer has resigned and another has been cleared for their roles in an off-duty altercation at the Sarasota Ale House near Bee Ridge and Cattlemen roads in January.

Venice police released a 300-plus page internal investigation today on the fight. The report concluded that Corey Quinlan, 26, threatened people in the restaurant after identifying himself as a police officer. He was there with his wife and three other officers when he and his wife started fighting and water splashed on a group of people near the bar.

Quinlan resigned in the middle of the investigation, said Police Chief Julie Williams.

"It is irresponsible and reprehensible," said Williams, who has been chief for two years. "It's not reflective of individuals who work for the police department."

Police investigators were prepared to recommend firing Quinlan before he resigned for violating department rules of conduct and city regulations. The report concluded that Quinlan was intoxicated, yelled obscenities, fought, pushed and threatened staff while identifying himself as a police officer.

"He stated he had a badge and gun and would get them and arrest the staff of the Ale House," the report stated. Also, he failed to cooperate with Sarasota County sheriff's investigators, the report said.

In contrast, the investigation concluded that Officer Brett Woodworth acted appropriately. Investigator Lt. Michael Rose said Woodworth sought to calm the situation and avoid a confrontation.

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