Mayor Martin’s Interference with Internal Affairs Investigation

Documented Allegation: Claims of Interference in PSLPD Internal Affairs Investigation

Overview

Serious allegations have emerged involving Mayor Shannon Martin and her husband, Sgt. Aaron Martin, regarding potential interference in an official Port St. Lucie Police Department (PSLPD) Internal Affairs investigation.

The case centers around the termination and subsequent rehiring of Officer Hailey Nine, raising concerns about political influence, procedural integrity, and adherence to city governance laws.

The Timeline

Initial Termination

Officer Hailey Nine was terminated from PSLPD following the conclusion of an Internal Affairs investigation.

Alleged Interference

According to documented claims and witness accounts, Mayor Martin and Sgt. Martin allegedly intervened in the investigative process. The nature and extent of this involvement remain key points of concern.

Subsequent Rehiring

After her termination, Officer Nine was later rehired by the West Palm Beach Police Department.

Badge Ceremony Attendance

Mayor Shannon Martin and Sgt. Aaron Martin reportedly attended Officer Nine’s badge pinning ceremony in West Palm Beach, further drawing attention to their connection to the case.

City Charter Implications

The allegations raise potential violations of the Port St. Lucie City Charter:

Section 3.07:
“Neither the city council nor any of its members shall give orders to any subordinate of the city manager, either publicly or privately…”

This provision is intended to preserve the independence of city operations and prevent political interference in administrative or investigative matters. Any involvement in an Internal Affairs investigation could represent a direct breach of this rule.

Why This Matters

This situation brings forward several serious concerns:

• Integrity of Internal Affairs Investigations:
  Was the investigative process conducted independently and without outside influence?

• Abuse of Authority:
  Did elected officials overstep legal boundaries to influence outcomes within the police department?

• Public Trust:
  Allegations of interference can undermine confidence in both law enforcement and local government leadership.

City Charter Violations

Port St. Lucie City Charter – Sec. 3.07: “Neither the city council nor any of its members shall give orders to any subordinate of the city manager, either publicly or privately…”

This section explicitly prohibits council members from interfering with city staff operations. Any interference with an Internal Affairs investigation would constitute a direct violation of this charter provision.

Witnesses

• Rob Loupe
• Erica Curry Loupe
• PSLPD Command Staff