Cleveland, Tenn., police sergeant fired over evidence

photo Sgt. Suzanne Jackson is pictured in this 2007 file photo.

A 19-year veteran of the Cleveland Police Department was fired after she mishandled evidence, according to department officials.

While working on a case, Sgt. Suzanne Jackson "grossly violated [the department's] internal policies regarding the handling of case evidence," Cleveland police spokeswoman Sgt. Evie West said in a news release.

West said Jackson's actions "could very well jeopardize the case."

West said she did not specify what the case was or how Jackson mishandled evidence because the case is pending in court.

Attempts to reach Jackson were unsuccessful.

Jackson, who was fired Sept. 20, appealed the firing Monday, West said.

City Manager Janice Casteel will decide on Jackson's appeal.

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