PORT ST. LUCIE — Three Port St. Lucie police officers have been placed on paid administrative leave as the Florida Department of Law Enforcement takes over the criminal investigation into two incidents involving political campaign signs last week.
The incidents occurred in the area of SW Airoso Boulevard. The Port St. Lucie Police Department said the officers were placed on leave effective Aug. 11 pending the outcome of the investigations.
The officers are Lt. Aaron Martin, Lt. Jason Vega and Detective Sgt. Joseph Alves.
Aaron Martin is the husband of Port St. Lucie Mayor Shannon Martin.
The police department said its investigative process requires the criminal investigation to be completed before its internal administrative investigation begins. The department said that process is intended to keep the two investigations separate and independent.
Police Chief Leo Niemczyk reviewed the initial facts and timeline surrounding the incidents before deciding to request assistance from FDLE, according to the department.
FDLE has agreed to take responsibility for the criminal investigation.
The Port St. Lucie Police Department said it will not provide additional information about the criminal investigation or comment on matters being handled by FDLE. Questions about the criminal investigation should be directed to FDLE.
Once the criminal investigation is complete, the department's internal administrative investigation will proceed under department procedures, applicable law and the Florida Law Enforcement Officers' Bill of Rights, as appropriate.
The department said the investigations will be conducted fairly and impartially and in accordance with its standards for integrity, professionalism and accountability.