PITTSBURGH -- Outrage continues over several controversial promotions within the Pittsburgh Police Department.

Now the National Organization for Women is calling for action.

George Trosky was promoted from detective to commander of zone 2 despite accusations of domestic violence and using excessive force.

In 1989, Trosky was videotaped punching a Grateful Dead fan outside the Civic Arena.

Trosky was arrested again in 1997 for breaking his wife's nose. The charges were later dropped.

Charles Rodruiguez was promoted from sergeant to lieutenant even though he was charged with simple assault during an incident with his daughter.

Eugene Hlavac was promoted to sergeant even though police have been called to his home after he had loud arguments with his girlfriend.

Now the opposition is growing against the promotions of Trosky and two other officers.

Activists have successfully petitioned for a a special Council hearing to air concerns over the three officers.

Jeanne Clark organized the petition drive to get the special Council hearing.

Clark is an active local member of NOW.

"Let's make sure we are promoting officers we know will be peace officers, no matter who they're working with," said Clark. "Frankly, if the women they say they love can't trust them, why should the citizens of Pittsburgh?"

"Each of these individuals has served the city very well," said Police Union President Jim Malloy. "They have the opportunity to demonstrate that they will continue to do well."

Cmdr. Catherine McNeilly of the Pittsburgh Police Department has joined protesters in their concerns.

In a letter to reporters, McNeilly wrote of Mayor Luke Ravenstahl: "The last three promotions have raised concerns to a number of women's groups in the Pittsburgh area because of allegations of domestic abuse. However, Mr. Ravenstahl will not even address the concerns of these women."

McNeilly also wrote that women are not fairly represented among the police department's hierarchy.

The special hearing before Council is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Thursday.

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