Comment about this post.

First and foremost, the Captain was wrong for even trying to hold something over the head of an employee that he had nothing to do with. If the Captain was using this as a grudge, then he was in the wrong. The Sergeant had every right to confront his Captain and address the issue. If he felt he couldn't do it alone then the best way to confron the situation is with mediation which would involve the use of a third party who has a neutral side in the situation. The thrid party is only there to help both sides come to an agreement and provide help as needed. Mediators "are not alloed to make decisions, instead their role is to faciliate the communication process by providing both parties with a safe and equitable venue so that they are more willing and able to reach a solution"

If before the mediation happens, the SWergeant may feel that he may need to withdrawl from the situation. This may mean that he feels he can no longer work with his Captain due to the now circumstance and decides he wants to be transfered to another department. This may be due to bad reprts now or a conflict of interest. If this were to happen, this would mean the Captain was out to win at all cost. This means that the Captain wouldn't care what happens, he would only try to ruin the career of the Sergeant no matter what it took. The Sergeant, in his best interest should not accomodate to the Captain due to his ignorance after the situation. It would be better for them, as a leader and subordinate, to collaborate so that both sides come to a mutual agreement and are able to continue working together.

The overall issue should be worked out to the best of both sides. There is always a way to work through the issue and if need be things should be taken higher to resolve the issue.