Albany Cop Suspended, Faces Termination Over 'Racist' Remarks Caught On Video

The public is now getting a look at the body camera footage that has now led to Albany's Police Chief recommending that an officer be fired.

Police say the video caught on the body camera of an Albany County Sheriff's Deputy shows Albany Police Officer David Haupt making racist remarks. This was first reported by The Times Union newspaper.

"This was without a doubt racist hateful comments made by a police officer,” Police Chief Eric Hawkins said Friday.

Chief Hawkins initially announced Thursday that Haupt, who joined the force in 2016 had been suspended without pay for 30 days after the footage was flagged, and sent to the Department of Professional Standards. The Chief, now making it clear a suspension is not enough.

"I have initiated the process of ensuring that person never wears an Albany Police Department uniform again,” Chief Hawkins said.

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan is also speaking out and commending the Chief for acting quickly. Mayor Sheehan said she also believes Haupt needs to be terminated by the Department.

Chief Hawkins says Haupt had recently completed additional racial harassment, diversity and workplace violence training, and his termination could take as long as several months if he disputes the firing recommendation.

"Law enforcement leaders have an obligation to stand up, call it what it is and take the appropriate action,” said Chief Hawkins.