State investigating Ashland police chief on leave

ASHLAND, Mo. (KMIZ) -

The Missouri State Highway Patrol has an open investigation into Ashland's police chief, according to a patrol spokesman.

Patrol Sgt. Darrin Haslag told ABC 17 News on Tuesday that the Division of Drug and Crime Control had an active investigation involving Chief Gabe Edwards. Haslag did not say what the nature of the investigation was, but said the patrol "was asked" to conduct an investigation.

"That investigation is currently open so I cannot provide any updates on its status other than it is still an active investigation," Haslag said.

Edwards has been on paid leave at the city of Ashland since July 17. City leaders have not said why they put Edwards on leave. City administrator Kyle Michel did not respond to a request for comment on if the DDCC investigation had anything to do with Edwards's current job status.

Ashland hired Scott Young in late July to serve as interim chief while Edwards was on leave.

The Boone County Sheriff's Office is also helping the city cover patrol operations. Edwards was still listed on the APD roster as of Aug.10, according to records obtained by ABC 17 News.