Probe launched into NHP over rumors

Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2002 | 9:02 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- In what may sound like a "Big Brother" scenario, Richard Kirkland, director of the state Department of Investigation, is conducting an inquiry into the Nevada Highway Patrol in an attempt to learn who is responsible for spreading rumors of his pending resignation.

In early January Kirkland, the overall authority for the patrol, sent a memo calling some Reno troopers in for questioning.

Kirkland this week said he is authorized to conduct a probe according to the Nevada Highway Patrol manual, which says "Employees shall not disseminate malicious rumors nor pass derogatory statements relating to the department, the division, its members or other agencies."

He declined to say what was malicious or derogatory about reports that he may leave his $103,000-a-year job.

Gov. Kenny Guinn said he is aware of the allegations but is staying clear of the controversy.

Kirkland said complaints about the rumors came from two troopers who believed it was disrupting. However, the memo summoning the patrol troopers says Kirkland signed the complaint, not the two troopers.

He says he cannot discuss the case publicly because of the confidentiality laws.

Stewart Handte, president of the Nevada Highway Patrol union, was placed on paid administrative leave in late December by Kirkland for circulating rumors. Handte is also accused of distributing a confidential list of troopers and also of being involved in an incident in which several troopers failed to pay a $2.65 bill at a Reno restaurant.

Handte said the list was not confidential, and that he was not the trooper who forgot to pay the bill.