Southborough Police Chief placed on leave, town won't say why
SOUTHBOROUGH — Longtime Police Chief Kenneth Paulhus is on leave, according to a town official.
Town Administrator Mark Purple said in a statement that Paulhus has been placed on leave, but would not say why. He did not specify whether Purple was on paid or unpaid leave, although due to most police contracts leaves are typically paid.
"Police Chief Ken Paulhus is on leave," Purple said in the statement. "Lt. (Ryan) Newell is serving as acting chief in Chief Paulhus’ absence. Given that this is a personnel matter, the Town cannot comment further."
The Select Board held an emergency executive session meeting on Feb. 28. The stated reason was: “To discuss the reputation, character, physical condition or mental health, rather than professional competence, of an individual, or to discuss the discipline or dismissal of, or complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff member or individual."
Purple would not confirm whether that individual is Paulhus.
Neither Paulhus nor a police union representative could be reached for comment. Select Board Chairwoman Lisa Braccio said the town would not have any comment.
Paulhus joined the Southborough Police Department in 2014, after Jane Moran retired. Previously, he was a captain at the Woonsocket, Rhode Island, Police Department.
Norman Miller can be reached at 508-626-3823 or nmiller@wickedlocal.com. For up-to-date public safety news, follow Norman Miller on Twitter @Norman_MillerMW or on Facebook at facebook.com/NormanMillerCrime.
This article originally appeared on MetroWest Daily News: Southborough Police Chief Ken Paulhus on leave
