Two members of East St. Louis Police Department under investigation

The East St. Louis Police Department is investigating two of its members — one for an alleged sexual assault and another for allegedly being in possession of illegal drugs – the city manager has confirmed.

It was unclear Wednesday whether they were still working for the city, as the city manager and chief of police would only say that an investigation was under way in both cases.

City Manager Alvin Parks Jr. said neither he nor the police chief could give details about the investigations, because they are ongoing.

East St. Louis Police Chief Michael Hubbard also confirmed his department is investigating two employees.

“We cannot give out any information at this time,” Hubbard said.

Both Parks and Hubbard promised to be transparent and said if it’s determined that any city employees have done wrong, the employees will be held accountable.

“Chief Hubbard and his staff have to discern what’s taken place, and at this point, we are not at liberty to discuss any information pertaining to the investigation,” Parks said. “We have an ongoing investigation at this point, with discipline possibly to follow soon.”

He added, “We can’t get into the specifics. We don’t want to taint the situation, jeopardize or contaminate the sensitivity of this matter.”

The alleged sexual assault occurred a little more than two weeks ago.

Rev. Johnny Scott, a member of the city’s police and fire board, said he was pleased that investigations are underway, and he wants to get the truth of the matter in both instances.

“We don’t condone any sworn officer who engages in any illegal acts. Their lives should be at a higher standard than a normal citizen. They are sworn to uphold the laws and to protect the citizens,” Scott said.

He added, “We certainly would like to get to the bottom of it ... the truth of it so we can show those officials we will not tolerate that kind of activity by officials who are sworn to uphold the law. We will wait for the results of the investigation. We want it to go forward.”

This story was originally published September 16, 2015 at 4:35 PM with the headline "Two members of East St. Louis Police Department under investigation."