Neighborhood engagement director dismissed following allegations of inappropriate conduct towards a Council member.

Hassan Freeman, formerly serving as the director of neighborhood and community engagement under Mayor Cherelle L. Parker, has been separated from his position following an incident involving City Councilmember Isaiah Thomas. The altercation occurred approximately three weeks prior, when Thomas accused Freeman and another city employee of confronting him in a “negative and disturbing interaction” as he arrived at City Hall for a scheduled Council meeting on September 18.

In a statement, Tiffany W. Thurman, Parker’s chief of staff, confirmed that Freeman was no longer employed by the city, characterizing the matter as a personnel issue, and refraining from further comment. The fallout from the incident points to ongoing tensions between Thomas and the Parker administration, with Thomas expressing dissatisfaction over several policy decisions, including appointments to the school board and specific housing initiatives.

In an email to administration officials obtained by Media News Source, Thomas described the encounter as involving a disrespectful tone and hostile demeanor from Freeman and his associate. He noted that they failed to address him by his proper title, which he interpreted as a deliberate act disrespecting his position within the city Council.

Thomas has maintained a critical stance towards the Parker administration, marking him as a distinct voice within a Council largely supportive of the mayor’s initiatives. His inability to garner respect during such interactions illustrates broader conflicts within city governance, particularly in an administration that has otherwise received favorable acquiescence from fellow Council members.

Although neither Freeman nor Thomas has commented publicly on the matter since Tuesday, Parker’s office has confirmed that a police report concerning the incident was filed, although details remain undisclosed due to the lack of criminal allegations.

Sgt. Eric Gripp from the Police Department noted the report classified the situation as a verbal disturbance rather than a crime, which would fall outside the standard procedures requiring detailed investigations.

Freeman’s role in the administration entailed overseeing the Neighborhood Community Action Centers, a Parker initiative aimed at enhancing public access to city services. These centers serve as local hubs where residents receive assistance with various issues, from filing complaints regarding abandoned vehicles to obtaining social services.

As Parker’s administration continues to navigate these internal challenges, the vacancy left by Freeman emphasizes a need for stability in leadership roles, particularly ones focused on community engagement and interaction with city residents. It remains unclear who may take over Freeman’s responsibilities, as the administration evaluates its next steps.