SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The South Bend Police Merit Board’s August 1st meeting began later than scheduled following an extended executive session. 

On the agenda was the board’s recognition of Butler’s resignation, submitted on July 1, and a determination regarding his eligibility for back pay. 

Last month, the Merit Board, which just began overseeing disciplinary actions within the department in March, was presented with three options under state law. However, members voted unanimously to defer the decision until they received findings from an internal investigation conducted by the South Bend Police Department.

Those findings, dated July 31, identified five policy violations involving Butler, according to Chief Scott Ruszkowski.

Following a review of the report, the board voted to deny Butler’s back pay 4-1. 

Only one member, Ray Owens, who was appointed by the mayor, voted against the motion. 

Butler attended the meeting and spoke directly to the board before the vote. 

"If they could grant me getting full back pay or even as they advise straight pay without the incentive and things like that… that would truly be greatly appreciated. Thank you," said Butler.

The board’s decision is subject to judicial review and may be appealed in circuit court.