According to a report in the Muncie Star Press, Jonathan Powell, a former Muncie police officer who was terminated two months ago amidst allegations of cocaine use, has applied to become a city firefighter. Despite the recent controversy surrounding his dismissal, Powell has received a conditional offer of employment from the Muncie Fire Merit Commission.

Andrew Dale, the president of the fire merit commission, revealed that Powell is one of approximately 25 candidates who have received conditional offers in recent days. Dale emphasized that this offer is subject to a thorough background check, typically conducted by law enforcement agencies. 

Given Powell’s past association with the Muncie Police Department (MPD) and his dismissal from the force due to alleged drug involvement, the background investigation may be handled by an external agency, such as the Indiana State Police, to ensure impartiality.

Despite concerns surrounding Powell’s eligibility for the firefighter position, Dale assured the public that the hiring process would be conducted diligently and professionally. He reiterated that the fire merit commission, not the Muncie Fire Department administration, holds the responsibility for vetting and selecting candidates. 

Dale also emphasized that Powell’s familial ties to Muncie politics, including his mother (Nora Powell) serving as a Democratic member of the Muncie City Council, would not influence the hiring decision.

Powell’s termination from the Muncie Police Department in February, along with another officer, Lance Clay, stemmed from allegations of cocaine involvement dating back to January 2023. 

Although the Police Merit Commission cited “conduct unbecoming an officer,” no criminal charges have been filed against either officer. Delaware County Prosecutor Eric Hoffman expressed concerns regarding Powell’s credibility as a witness in criminal prosecutions, effectively precluding him from testifying in such cases.