Grand Island officer refused to speak with investigators after 2022 police car crash
A Grand Island police officer, Thomas J. Franz, allegedly caused a crash in 2022 while speeding and running a red light, seriously injuring an elderly woman; he was never disciplined and was later promoted despite refusing to cooperate with the investigation. The town settled lawsuits related to the incident for nearly $1 million without public disclosure, raising concerns about transparency and accountability, particularly since Franz was responding to a low-priority call. A town council member is now questioning the handling of the situation and seeking answers about the lack of discipline and the promotion.