A high-ranking police official in Styria is under investigation following allegations of bullying, according to reports from the Austria Press Agency and Krone Zeitung. The Styrian Police Directorate confirmed that a review of the accusations is currently underway.
The investigation stems from a detailed report submitted by the alleged victim, a female executive within the police force, through her attorney. The report outlines a pattern of alleged mistreatment.
43 Incidents Reported Since 2023
The executive details 43 separate incidents occurring since May 2023, including claims of systematic denial of meetings, rejection of timely vacation requests, alleged surveillance and secretive discussions held behind her back. She also alleges that her supervisor denied her permission to attend the funeral of a long-time colleague, telling her to “first attend to your duties.”
Official Denies Allegations, Cites Communication Issues
The accused officer, in a statement provided to the APA and Krone Zeitung, dismissed the claims as “subjective and incorrect,” and suggested the female executive needs to improve her communication skills. He maintained that as a supervisor, he is obligated to “address any shortcomings.” He stated he trusts an objective assessment of the facts and will “naturally cooperate with the clarification and correction” of the situation.
Prior Disciplinary Complaint Dismissed
The woman previously filed a complaint with the Federal Disciplinary Authority, but it was rejected. The authority sided with the officer and even found the executive had committed breaches of duty. Yet, a subsequent appeal to the Federal Administrative Court in June 2025 resulted in her acquittal.
Styrian Police Director Gerald Ortner stated to the APA, “Several joint discussions were held in advance to attempt to clarify the matter. However, these discussions did not lead to a sustainable solution.” According to Ortner, the officer facing the allegations has been relieved of his supervisory and professional responsibilities regarding his employees pending the outcome of the investigation.
Police Directorate Sees No Conflict of Interest
The Styrian Police Directorate stated it does not believe there is a conflict of interest in the case. “To avoid even the appearance of bias, the investigation has been assigned to a leader within the Styrian Police Directorate who reports to a different organizational unit than the individuals involved,” officials said.
The Styrian Police Directorate emphasized that past instances of misconduct by high-ranking officers have always been thoroughly and carefully investigated with the necessary seriousness. Ortner stated that the allegations are being taken seriously, while also acknowledging the presumption of innocence for all parties involved. The case underscores the challenges of addressing internal complaints within law enforcement agencies.
