Is 'Coach' Fonseca fit for public office?
Is 'Coach' Fonseca fit for public office?
Dear Editor:
I served as an Osceola County educator for over 30 years, so I take great interest in School Board races. I received a call about the district 4 race. The caller asked questions about the School Board candidates. A mention that stood out was that candidate Will Fonseca was a former Kissimmee Police Department Officer. I reviewed Fonseca’s online campaign ads and could not find mention of a past with KPD.
This sparked my curiosity. I requested records from the City of Kissimmee associated with his service from KPD. I received a 52-page Disciplinary Proceedings document labeled Case #28552. The document details the circumstances surrounding Fonseca’s 2009 departure and KPD Internal Investigation (IA 08-020). There were four sustained allegations: Failing to notify Central Communications of a Traffic Stop violating City of Kissimmee Rules and Regulations – Negligence in the Performance of Assigned Duties.
Violation of City of Kissimmee Rules and Regulations – Repetitive Negligence in the Performance of Assigned duties. Investigator’s findings include “Officer Fonseca was repetitively negligent in performing his assigned duties by engaging in numerous on-duty social meetings … Officer Fonseca acknowledged his action of socializing with [REDACTED] instead performing his duty assignments was wrong.”
Violation of KPD General Order – Improper or unauthorized use of tools, equipment or machines; violating City of Kissimmee Rules and Regulations - Unlawful and improper conduct on or off the job which has adverse effect upon the City’s reputation or ability to fulfill its public obligation. “Officer Wilfredo Fonseca intentionally conducted improper DHSMV/DAVID queries on approximately 18 subjects for nonlaw enforcement purposes.”
Violation of KPD General Order – Discussing or releasing internal affairs information; violating City of Kissimmee Rules and Regulations. “Intentional non-compliance with written and oral instructions of a supervisor.”
The result of KPD’s internal was that Fonseca agreed to “voluntary separation or retirement in lieu of termination”.
We should all expect a level of morality, responsibility and integrity from our public officials especially those that affect the welfare and education of our children. Based on this report, I believe Fonseca is NOT fit to serve as a School Board official. I trust that any voter that cares about the youth in our community will make the correct choice this November.
Karlene Beville
St. Cloud
