A retired Phoenix Police sergeant is defending himself after allegations he lied on his timesheet.
Sources say an estimated 200 hours are in question. But the retired sergeant says he would never steal from the city.
"25 years is a long time in one career," said John Delamater.
"I was a Tactical Response Supervisor. So I worked a lot of the tactical events and protests and supervised the housing projects," said Delamater.
His career came to an end February 10 when he resigned.
"In the light of the way things were looking at the time, I just felt it was time," said Delameter.
Phoenix police launched an investigation into Delameter's hours a few months ago. Soon after, he went on medical leave and then came back to resign.
The investigation centers on claims that Delameter would come in late and leave early. Sources say Delamater was flexing his schedule with permission from his supervisors.
"Depending on what job you have in the department, especially when you work for a specialty squad, there is a lot more flexibility than if you work patrol. There are times when you are called in last minute. There are times when you work hours that you normally wouldn't work. It's not a typical 9-5 position," said Delamater
Which he says could be the reason for the misunderstanding.
When asked if he would lie on his time sheet and the hours he worked, Delamater replied, “Of course not. Of course not."
Phoenix police say a criminal investigation is underway and the case will be handed over to the County Attorney's office.
Officials with the Phoenix Police Sergeants and Lieutenants Association say the case brings attention to the problem they believe the Phoenix Police Department has with flex time.
They say they have been trying to work with Phoenix police to come up with a system where flex time can be tracked.
