The City of Lakewood has put its police chief on leave.
The Tacoma News Tribune reported that Chief Patrick Smith was placed on administrative leave last week while the city reviews what it calls “multiple investigative reports” and no-confidence votes.
In a statement to KIRO 7, the city said:
“The City of Lakewood can confirm it has placed the Chief of Police on administrative leave as we review the details and findings associated with votes of no confidence and multiple investigative reports. Assistant Chief David Claridge will be assuming the role of Acting Chief.”
Documents show the union representing officers say a 75% vote of no confidence in the chief, while the union representing supervisors had a unanimous vote of no confidence.
KIRO 7 obtained the letter the union sent to city leaders pointing to several issues tied to complaints over communication with leadership and staff.
One letter said Chief Smith “regularly isolated himself from daily operations, doesn’t communicate with staff or even know their names, and hasn’t really dealt with shrinking staffing levels.”
Smith could not be reached for comment.
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