New Haven (AP) — Black officers are alleging racism at the New Haven Police Department, including the use of the N-word during a police radio transmission in December.

The allegations were revealed Thursday by three groups — the National Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers, the New Haven County Silver Shields and the New Haven Guardians.

Police Chief Dean Esserman says the department is investigating the racial epithet incident. He says racist behavior within the department will not be tolerated.

The three groups also say someone drew a swastika on a cruiser in the police garage. Thirty officers were investigated, but the culprit hasn't been identified.

Esserman also has said there are pending charges against a sergeant who allegedly made a racially and sexually insensitive comment in front of a black female department employee.