Omaha Police Clear Up Conflicting Social Media Posts from Union and Senator

Clarifying the Conflict: Omaha Police and State Senator's Social Media Posts

The Omaha Police Department is working alongside KETV Investigates to address a recent controversy involving conflicting social media posts between the Omaha Police Officer’s Association (OPOA) and Nebraska State Senator Terrell McKinney. The situation has sparked discussions about public perception, law enforcement actions, and freedom of speech.

OPOA's Initial Post and Claims

In a post published on Wednesday, the OPOA claimed that Senator McKinney was "inciting anger" during the Native Omaha Days festivities. The post stated, "While our officers were performing CPR, applying tourniquets, and running toward gunfire, Nebraska State Senator Terrell McKinney, who represents this district, was flipping them off." It further alleged that McKinney was "inciting anger and shouting 'F--- the police.'"

This statement led to significant public reaction, with many questioning the accuracy of the claims and the context in which they were made.

OPOA's Response and Clarification

KETV Investigates spoke with OPOA President Patrick Dempsey to gain more insight into the original post. Dempsey explained that the intention behind the post was to highlight the efforts of officers who were working tirelessly during the event. He emphasized that officers were sacrificing their time on overtime, breaking up fights, and responding to multiple shootings throughout the weekend.

Dempsey also mentioned that the association had encountered Senator McKinney, who was seen flipping off officers. However, he later clarified that the specific claim about McKinney flipping off officers while they performed CPR was taken out of context. According to Dempsey, McKinney was not present during those critical moments, as confirmed by the officers who were there.

Senator McKinney's Statement

Senator McKinney responded to the allegations by releasing a statement to KETV and on Facebook. He said, "On Saturday night, I exchanged words with OPD because, from my perspective, they were unjustly attempting to violate the rights of community members. Yes, I made a post and it’s still up. Freedom of speech is not a violent act."

McKinney also noted that he was not present on Sunday night and was at home when he woke up to calls about the shooting that occurred. The post he referred to was made early Sunday morning, stating, "OPD can’t tell yall the city ordinances that closes 24th at 2am fyi!"

Context of the Shooting Events

The incident comes amid a troubling weekend in North Omaha, where two separate shootings occurred. On Saturday morning, seven people were injured in a mass shooting near 30th Street and Bedford Avenue. Then, early Monday morning, another shooting near 24th Street and Patrick Avenue left two people injured and one dead.

These events overlapped with the annual Native Omaha Days celebration, adding to the tension and concern within the community.

Omaha Police Department's Response

KETV Investigates reached out to the Omaha Police Department, which confirmed that Chief Todd Schmaderer was aware of the social media posts. The department investigated the claims and found no criminal conduct. They also clarified that the shootings and homicides were separate incidents from the officers' altercation with McKinney.

Furthermore, the department confirmed that McKinney did not interfere with any ongoing investigations related to the shootings.

Community Impact and Ongoing Discussions

The situation has raised important questions about the relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve. It highlights the need for clear communication, accurate information, and mutual respect in public discourse.

As the community continues to process these events, the focus remains on ensuring safety, supporting victims, and fostering understanding between different groups involved in public service and civic engagement.