From Valleynewslive · · 2m
Officer with questionable past becomes city’s top cop
Riverview police chief fired detective who investigated him after jailhouse appointment.
In brief
Riverview police chief fired detective who investigated him after jailhouse appointment. Riverview Police Chief Brandin Neil, appointed after being jailed, fired a detective who investigated him for misconduct allegations. Originally reported by Valleynewslive.
Riverview police chief appointed after jail
Riverview Police Chief Brandin Neil was handpicked by jailed mayor Michael Cornell Jr. for the top police role.
Chief Neil fired detective who investigated him
Former Riverview Detective Corporal Maurico Wilson claims he was fired by Chief Neil after investigating him for misconduct.
Neil’s history of misconduct allegations
Neil faced court action for alleged excessive force, including punches to the head, against non-resisting individuals.
2019 gas station incident
In 2019, Neil allegedly punched Bryan Boyle in the head with handcuffs after an argument at a St. Louis City gas station.
2021 bench trial
Neil was found not guilty in a 2021 bench trial after a prosecutor argued he had no reason for aggressive response to Boyle.
2025 town hall arrest
Neil arrested former Riverview Alderwoman Regina Davis during a town hall meeting, leading to a lawsuit over excessive force.
2025 nightclub video
A video shows Neil punching a man in the head while on the ground outside a St. Louis City nightclub on March 14, 2025.
Jailed mayor’s role
Jailed mayor Michael Cornell Jr. handpicked Neil for the top police role while awaiting trial for alleged sex crimes.
Neil’s background check
Wilson claims he discovered allegations against Neil during Neil’s background check before rehiring him as chief.
Wanted for impersonation
A ‘wanted’ was issued for Neil on May 4, 2026, for impersonating a police officer while not employed by any department.
Neil’s statement
Neil stated he used the past 5 months to bring the department into state compliance and attend community events.
Furloughed department
Riverview Police Department furloughed on Sept. 10, 2026, with Neil as one of two remaining commissioned officers.
Internal affairs investigation
Neil was under investigation by Missouri Peace Officer’s Standards and Training (POST) for alleged misconduct during his time with Moline Acres Police.
Neil’s protection detail
Neil worked as part of mayor Cornell’s protection detail, including trips to strip clubs in Illinois.
Neil’s lawsuit
Neil filed a lawsuit against Riverview for unpaid comp hours after Cornell’s arrest.
What happens next
Neil faces ongoing litigation and potential investigation by Missouri POST over misconduct allegations.
What matters most
Riverview Police Chief Brandin Neil, appointed after being jailed, fired a detective who investigated him for misconduct allegations.
