In a recent investigative report, it was revealed that the city of Pittsburgh is owed nearly $2 million in unpaid invoices linked to secondary employment by police officers. These invoices stretch back several years, raising questions about oversight and collection processes. Chief Investigator Rick Earle uncovered these discrepancies after accessing detailed records through a right-to-know request. The investigation further highlights connections to past financial mismanagement scandals within the Pittsburgh Police Department, emphasizing the need for improved accountability measures.
Unpaid Bills Plague Pittsburgh's Secondary Employment System
In the heart of Pittsburgh, an issue involving unpaid invoices has come under scrutiny. Following an extensive investigation, it was discovered that hundreds of companies owe the city substantial sums for hiring police officers for secondary jobs. This problem dates back several years, with some bills remaining unpaid for as long as three years. Public Safety Director Lee Schmidt acknowledged flaws in the current collection process, attributing them partly to staff changes and a challenging transition when a company managing secondary employment was sold in 2022.
Among the 576 outstanding invoices totaling $1.8 million, a significant portion are overdue by more than four months. Schmidt expressed confidence in recovering most of the funds, despite acknowledging setbacks such as clerical errors that incorrectly flagged some companies as delinquent. To address these issues, Schmidt has appointed his assistant public safety director to oversee collections, already resulting in the recovery of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This situation echoes previous controversies surrounding the misuse of secondary employment funds, including a high-profile case where a former police chief faced federal charges. Recognizing the urgency for reform, Schmidt aims to implement a new contract system by June, incorporating advanced technology like geo-fencing to ensure accurate tracking of officer work hours and efficient collection procedures.
From a journalist's perspective, this investigation underscores the importance of transparent financial management in public services. It serves as a reminder that vigilance and accountability are essential to prevent recurrence of past mistakes. By adopting modern solutions and strengthening internal controls, Pittsburgh can pave the way toward a more reliable and trustworthy system for managing secondary employment funds. Such efforts not only restore public trust but also ensure fair use of taxpayer money.