Ashland police chief on administrative leave

ASHLAND, Mo. (KMIZ)

Ashland's city administrator announced on Tuesday that Police Chief Lyn Woolford has been placed on paid administrative leave.

The release was sent out by City Administrator Tony St. Romaine. According to the release, St. Romaine placed Woolford on leave effective immediately based on a decision from Ashland Mayor Gene Rhorer.

"I can tell you that I was made aware of and the mayor was made aware of a situation in the middle of last week. So, Wednesday of last week. So, for the last few days, we have begun an internal investigation," St. Romaine said.

City officials are not releasing information about what that situation is or how long the investigation will take.

St. Romaine said he was not aware of any complaints about Woolford from citizens or city staff.

"As far as I know there have been no personnel actions taken during his term as City Administrator or city Police Chief," he said.

St. Romaine said Deputy Chief Terry Toalson will take over as interim police chief. The release shows the Ashland Board of Aldermen will vote on Toalson's interim status at the board meeting on Feb. 18.

It's unclear why Woolford was placed on administrative leave. St. Romaine said the city will provide additional information later.

Woolford did not respond to a message seeking comment.