Purcellville, VA — The Town of Purcellville is under increased scrutiny following grand jury indictments against Vice Mayor Ben Nett and Town Manager Kwasi Fraser. Nett is facing six felony charges, including allegations of misusing the Virginia Criminal Information Network and bid rigging. Fraser is charged with two felonies related to bid rigging and conspiracy. These indictments stem from a Virginia State Police investigation initiated by Attorney General Jason Miyares.
The indictments follow an internal grievance appeal filed by Vice Mayor Nett after his termination from the Purcellville Police Department. The Employee Grievance Panel, chaired by David R. Buss, Ph.D., with panelists Mr. Brian K. Wells and Jonathan R. Wright, exonerated Vice Mayor Nett of earlier, less severe misconduct allegations. These previous allegations differ from the current criminal charges. The panel overturned his April 4 termination, citing a lack of factual support, political motivations, and procedural issues.
Concerns have emerged about the panel’s composition, as outlined in the Employee Handbook, which specifies that one member is to be appointed by Nett and another by Town Manager Fraser. The two appointed panelists then select the third. Given Fraser’s past campaign support for Nett, concerns about a conflict of interest have been raised. Additionally, one panelist is noted to be a neighbor of Nett, leading to questions about the panel’s impartiality, especially in light of the serious charges now facing both officials.
In the disciplinary appeal process, the formation of a hearing panel is a critical step. Some argue that Fraser should have recused himself from the selection process due to the involvement of a police department employee and that human resources could have participated in selecting the town’s representative.
The panel found no evidence of misconduct in the five minor allegations against Nett, which included issues involving sick leave, meeting attendance, and body camera use. It also criticized the process leading to his termination, citing reliance on a single political rival’s testimony and irregularities in Nett’s placement on the Brady/Giglio list.
While the panel recommended reinstating Nett with full back pay and benefits and reimbursing his legal fees, the final decision now lies with the circuit court. The recent indictments have brought renewed attention to these conclusions, and the court’s decision is pending. The panel also noted concerns about internal leadership practices, including issues of insubordination among senior police officials and a challenging political environment.
As legal proceedings continue, it is essential to examine the processes and influences behind the panel’s decision. Transparency and fairness in town governance are crucial for maintaining public trust, particularly given the serious allegations currently facing Nett and Fraser.
For further updates on this developing story, stay informed with Purcellville News.