Norristown's police chief placed on administrative leave
NORRISTOWN, Pa. (WPVI) -- Norristown's police chief has been placed on administrative leave, Municipal Administrator Leonard Lightner announced on Monday.
Chief Jacqueline Bailey-Davis took office 11 months ago, becoming the first Black female to hold the post.
Norristown officials are not revealing the circumstances of their decision, calling it a confidential personnel matter.
"This decision was made after careful consideration and is not taken lightly. The Municipality recognizes the complexities and challenges associated with leadership in public service and remains committed to ensuring transparency and accountability while respecting the confidentiality of personnel matters," said Lightner in a statement.
"We ask for the community's understanding and patience as we navigate this matter. Our priority remains to uphold the trust of our residents and ensure the safety and well-being of all who visit, have businesses in Norristown and call Norristown home," added Lightner.
Bailey-Davis had no comment when Action News spoke with her over the phone Monday night.
According to Matt O'Connell, the president of the Norristown police union, the department is currently in a staffing crisis.
They are budgeted to have 69 officers, but O'Connell says they are down to 53.
In response to the chief being placed on leave, he told Action News, "The last year has been very difficult, and right now, the men and women of Norristown Lodge 31 Fraternal Order of Police support the municipal manager as he navigates this latest challenge."
Our data journalism team dug up data on crime in Norristown under the chief's leadership. It's relatively the same as this time last year with the exception of robberies, which are up 40%.
Norristown leaders are stressing that even with the chief on leave, the community is safe.
The Norristown police chief leads approximately 60 sworn officers and over 30 civilian staff who work to protect over 35,000 residents of the municipality.
