Mar 8, 2021
Mansfield Police Officer Charged
Earlier today, the Mansfield Division of Police formally charged Officer Brittney Pennywitt with “Assault” (M-1) in reference to an off-duty incident which occurred on February 28th at approximately 1:13AM in our city. The assault charge stems from a disturbance and physical confrontation that occurred between herself and Eric Wendling; a Richland County Sheriff’s Deputy who was, also, off-duty at the time of the incident.
Officer Pennywitt, who was sworn in on May 20, 2019; has been on paid administrative leave since the altercation and the pending investigative follow-up by the Mansfield Division of Police. She was formally charged following a review of the case by the Mansfield City Law Director’s Office. She remains on paid administrative leave pending an Internal Affairs review as well as the outcome of the pending criminal charge. Eric Wendling was charged at the scene with “Assault” (M-1) on the morning of the confrontation and incarcerated.