Higher court to hear Greenwich's appeal of cop decision

First Selectman James Lash’s wish has been granted and the town’s appeal of the suit won by Greenwich Police Department (GPD) Lt. Gary Honulik is going straight to the Connecticut State Supreme Court.

Lt. Honulik sued the town in 2004, claiming he had been passed over for promotion to captain in favor of Michael Pacewicz by then Chief of Police James Walters because of personal problems between him and the chief. Earlier this month Superior Court Michael Shay ruled strongly in favor of Lt. Honulik, ordering he be immediately promoted, Capt. Pacewicz be demoted and the town pay Lt. Honulik’s back captain’s pay and legal fees. Judge Shay also criticized Mr. Lash and Chief Walters for pressing ahead with a department restructuring while the case was pending, calling their actions “arrogant.”

By bypassing the court of appeals and going directly to the state’s top court, the case will move quickly. The town’s initial filing is due in 20 days and Lt. Honulik’s response 45 days after that.

Mr. Lash said he felt good about the town’s chances in court.

“The town continues to believe we have a good case for appeal and by going directly to the Supreme Court we not only get a quicker hearing, but it’s unlikely its ruling will be appealed,” Mr. Lash said. “That will get us to finality on this matter, which I believe is in the best interests of the police department and the town.”

Judge Shay’s order preventing the GPD from making any promotions to captain or deputy chief of police is still in effect until the case is resolved.

Last week, when announcing his decision to appeal, Mr. Lash said there were still settlement negotiations ongoing between Lt. Honulik, the town, Capt. Pacewicz and the Silver Shield Association, which, as the town’s police union, would have to sign off on any settlement to avoid more potential litigation.

“At this moment, the ball is in Mr. Honulik’s court,” Mr. Lash said. “We’ve made some specific suggestions on how to resolve the case. I think we need to have a constructive response from him.”

Mr. Honulik’s attorney, Catherine Emmett, could not be reached for comment. She has made it practice not to comment on the case while it is still pending.


kborsuk@greenwich-post.com

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