Wichita’s Ethics Advisory Board found Mayor Brandon Whipple violated the city’s ethics policy during an interaction with a WPD officer last year.

The incident happened during a neighborhood cleanup event in September of 2022. Whipple was accused of trying to get to the front of a line to drop off trash. Concerns were raised over how he interacted with an officer who stopped him.

During it’s investigation, the city’s Ethics Advisory Board found Whipple violated section D of the city’s ethics code. It reads, “seek no favors, nor use the prestige of office for private gain, nor use confidential information or government equipment or supplies to secure a profit or enhance wealth.” The board decided the violation was not a serious one, and aside from ethics training, no further action is being recommended.

Mayor Whipple issued a statement in response to the Ethics Advisory Board’s finding:

“I appreciate the work of the ethics board in reviewing this matter. I accept responsibility for my actions and apologize for any disappointment or distraction that this has caused. I have learned from this experience and am committed to moving forward with integrity and a renewed determination to continue my work for the people of Wichita.”