BPD Deputy Chief Suspended Pending Investigation

BRADENTON — Bradenton Police Department Deputy Chief Warren Merriman was placed on administrative leave Monday, pending an investigation by the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Few details were available as to the nature of criminal allegations that had been made against Merriman.
 

Bradenton Police Chief Michael Radzilowski put Merriman on paid leave and asked MCSO's internal investigators to look into the allegations to help ensure an impartial investigation. Neither of the departments were able to comment on the ongoing investigation.
 
Merriman was chosen to replace Captain Russell Tibbitts when he retired in April of 2011, after 22 years on the force, and in May of 2013 was promoted to Deputy Chief.
 
Merriman, who began his career with BPD as a patrol officer in December 1996, has had a successful career marked by steady promotion to leadership positions. He was made a patrol SGT in December of 2001, just five years into his career.
 
Merriman later oversaw Internal Affairs for about four years. He is a Navy veteran and graduate of the FBI National Academy.