The Kissimmee Police Department is set to expose the intricate web of officer misconduct and systemic issues revealed by an independent investigation led by the Orange County Sheriff's Office, an inquiry that follows pointed concerns from the State Attorney's Office regarding the conduct and truthfulness of numerous officers. According to a WESH report, stemming from a 2023 use-of-force case, the investigation centers on former police officer Andrew Baseggio's actions, which resulted in his indictment on charges including felony battery and witness tampering. Contentions of truthfulness and cultural issues led to the resignation of the former Kissimmee Police Chief, Betty Holland.
During a news conference, current Chief Charles Broadway is expected to discuss the awaited findings, along with detailing plans for reform within the department, an initiative aimed at restoring trust while maintaining quality service within the community. The department, meanwhile, is conducting a thorough review of the independent report to ensure that the disciplinary actions align with policies and the letter of the law, as stated in a news release.
This disciplinary reckoning is rooted in the culpable plea entered by Baseggio in April 2025, to charges including felony battery and official misconduct. This plea has set the stage for his anticipated sentencing, scheduled for later in June. ClickOrlando provided detailed information about the case. The indictment highlighted the severity of the entire situation, alleging that other officers not only laughed about the forceful incident perpetrated by Baseggio but also failed to report it, an action that reflected a broader culture of silence.
Though Holland resigned in the turbulent wake of these revelations, it's the eleven Kissimmee officers scrutinized by the grand jury who now face the music as their actions or inactions come into sharp focus, bringing to question the deep-seated issues within the department earlier when then-State Attorney Andrew Bain stated that a "culture of silence" where misconduct went unreported, was fostered within the ranks.
