Controversy Brews Over Delco Police Chief Candidate Under Criminal Investigation

COLLINGDALE, PA — Controversy continues to brew in Delaware County as the top contender for the police chief role in Collingdale is under investigation by police.

The Delaware County Fraternal Order of Police says that the candidate, county Detective Rhaheem Blanden, is under investigation for warning a homicide suspect of his pending arrest.

The district attorney's office and local police have confirmed an investigation into Blanden, but have not confirmed any details as it is active.

Blanden, meanwhile, told NBC 10 that he "doesn't know anything about a criminal investigation with CID."

The FOP and supporters came out in force at a Collingdale council meeting this week, which ended without a vote on the matter.

"Members of the Collingdale Police Department are requesting our support," the FOP said in a statement. "It is our belief they will hire a candidate that is under active criminal investigation from CID for 'tipping off' a suspect wanted for attempted homicide minutes before ERT region 1 was going to execute the warrant at the location."

The FOP attempted to have a representative speak at the meeting, but this was disallowed by the council because he wasn't a resident of Collingdale.