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Grievances Prompt Ocala Police Chief To Request Paid Leave

WUFT News file image
WUFT News file image

A north Florida police chief is requesting to be placed on paid administrative leave during an investigation of allegations brought by three officers that include accusations of sexual harassment and hostile treatment.

The Ocala Star-Banner is reporting that Ocala Police Chief Greg Graham's attorney sent a letter to Mayor Kent Guinn on Wednesday requesting the leave. The letter says Graham denies the allegations.

Attorney Bobi Frank filed a grievance against Graham last week in which Ocala police officers Rachel Mangum, Casey Walsh and T.J. Watts allege sexual harassment, hostile treatment and retaliation and discrimination by the chief.

Guinn, who oversees the police department, expressed his support for Graham on Monday, saying he wouldn't suspend him or place him on leave. Guinn hasn't acted on the chief's request.

The Associated Press is a wire service to which WUFT News subscribes.