The chief of the Fresno Police Department has been placed on paid administrative leave over allegations that he had an “inappropriate off-duty relationship” with a police officer’s wife.
Chief Paco Balderrama’s suspension came after city officials initially said they planned on allowing him to remain in his position while they conducted an investigation into the matter. “In light of the intense public scrutiny surrounding the administrative investigation, and in the best interest of all parties involved, Chief Paco Balderrama will be placed on paid administrative leave,” City Manager Georgeanne White said prior to breaking the news to Balderrama.
The allegation of an affair first surfaced in February, when Balderrama told the Fresno City Council about the accusation. Explaining the decision to suspend him four months later, the council has issued a statement that reads, “We believe this will restore stability to our department after a period of great turmoil.”