Bunkie detective suspended without pay

Bunkie aldermen approved a two-day suspension without pay for Detective Greer during a Nov. 5 special meeting, following an earlier encounter with a handcuffed detainee inside the Bunkie Police Department.

Police Chief Byron Juneau recommended the suspension for Nov. 9–10. Aldermen Vanessa Juneau, Sullivan Battiste and Jerrod Normand approved the recommendation unanimously. Aldermen Kendricks Johnson and Courtney Sampson were absent.

The minutes give no reason for the suspension. Officials had not responded to the newspaper’s request for comment.

The newspaper previously reported on a Sept. 22 encounter involving Greer and detainee Jason Dove. According to an investigation by KALB reporter Rob LaPerle, security footage showed Greer striking Dove on the chest and pushing him against a wall while Dove was handcuffed.

The recording did not contain audio.

Juneau told KALB that the officer’s conduct fell short of department standards. He also acknowledged a need for improved training and said he would recommend a temporary suspension without pay, subject to approval by aldermen.