The department hit hardest was Upland's, where three of its four full-time officers were decertified. In a statement, the borough said, "The police officers involved have categorically denied the allegation and at this time the borough has no reason or basis to disbelieve them." It would not comment beyond that.
S. Stanton Miller, a lawyer representing 12 of the officers, called the decision unjustified and said he would appeal it to Commonwealth Court.
The action was announced Thursday by a state police agency that oversees the certification process for 23,000 municipal police officers.
The decertification also immediately affects four officers in Darby Borough and two in Brookhaven. One officer in each of the following departments was involved: Ridley Park, Oxford, Nether Providence, Ridley Township, Trainer, and Upper Darby.
Jack Lewis, a state police spokesman, said the officers could no longer enforce the law, carry firearms, or reapply for certification. They could, however, work in an administrative capacity, he said.
Some departments said they would increase their use of part-time officers to fill in gaps. Police Chief Thomas Byrne in Ridley Park said he would take on a summer patrol if needed. He said he fully supported the staffer involved in his department, whom he described as a very good officer.
Reactions to the probe ranged from sadness to devastation.
For Oxford Police Chief John F. Slaugh, the decision of the Municipal Police Officers Educational and Training Commission provided some closure. The case began when two of his officers reported that a fellow officer was circulating test answers.
Chief John Eller of Brookhaven backed the two members of his force who were cited. One, he said, retired Monday after 39 years. Of the other, he said, "I stick by him."
