City officer on leave for domestic violence|[6/02/05]

Published 12:00 am Thursday, June 2, 2005

A Vicksburg police officer accused of domestic violence was placed on leave without pay Wednesday pending an investigation that could lead to her termination.

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen voted in favor of that recommendation from Deputy Police Chief Richard O’Bannon, but did not identify the officer. The board also voted to suspend without pay a firefighter pending an investigation.

O’Bannon did not give specifics about the domestic violence complaint, but said a statement was given against the officer last week. He said the investigation should be wrapped up next week.

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If the investigation results in charges being filed against the officer, that record would become public and the officer could be fired.

Separatly, a firefighter, who also was not identified, is on probation and accused of being late for his shift three times. The firefighter could also be fired, according to Lamar Horton, director of the human resource department.

Personnel actions are discussed in closed session and actions taken are reported. Police and fire department employees can appeal disciplinary decisions of the city board to the Civil Service Commission, which may uphold, amend or overturn the action.

All matters before the Civil Service Commission are open to the public and its decisions can be appealed to circuit court.