The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is reviewing a series of allegations brought forward by the Marco Island Police Union against Chief Tracy Frazzano following a recent no-confidence vote.
City Manager Mike McNees has requested FDLE’s evaluation to determine whether any of the claims in a 17-page document written up by the union might warrant a criminal investigation.
"I would ask people at this moment in time to have some patience. Let them do their work. Let me do my work in reviewing the other issues," McNees said. "In the meantime, we’ll review these allegations and get to the bottom of it."
The union’s document cites concerns dating back to 2020, including accusations of forgery, reckless driving, inappropriate comments, and misuse of authority. Of the 28 officers at the Marco Island Police Department, 23 voted against Frazzano, saying they no longer have confidence in her leadership.
McNees confirmed he was already aware of most of the claims presented by the union, with some incidents already handled through internal or disciplinary procedures. However, he believes a few of the listed issues “rose to a level” that required FDLE’s involvement.
The union president says that in previous investigations, MIPD officers were put on leave.
However, Chief Frazzano remains on duty since this is not a criminal investigation — FDLE is simply reviewing the document to decide if one should be opened.
Chief Frazzano has issued one statement, saying she recognizes she is “not perfect” and is working with her team to “create a better internal culture at MIPD.” The union dismissed her response as “unconvincing and utter nonsense,” saying it appeared to be a "desperate attempt to salvage her reputation."
What’s next for Chief Frazzano now depends on whether the FDLE opens a criminal investigation. McNees tells us there’s no timeline for that decision yet.