Hyattsville officers who allege impropriety say department forced them out

A former Hyattsville police lieutenant and a current officer said Tuesday at a news conference that they were suspended and one forced to retire early because they were outspoken about alleged impropriety in the department.

Appearing outside the Hyattsville police station with leaders from the NAACP and Casa de Maryland, retired Lt. Gary Blakes and officer Barbara Smith said that they were punished for decrying racism and sexism in the department and that they have filed complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.