Speculation Swirls After Hayward Police Chief's Sudden Secret Departure

HAYWARD (KPIX 5) -- Hayward's top cop was suddenly taken off the job, over a secret "personal" matter.

Police Chief Diane Stuart was featured in a story on KPIX 5 about her dedication to crossfit training and competitions.

She was appointed in August of 2011, becoming the first female to lead the city's police department. She started her law enforcement career in 1986 with the San Jose Police Department.

Hayward Police Department released a statement confirming Stuart was placed on paid administrative leave for personnel issues but didn't explain what kind of issues.

Sources within the department tell KPIX 5 high-ranking officials were quote "blindsided "by Stuart's sudden leave, saying it "came out of left field."

KPIX 5 has learned the Chief's husband Clark Stuart, a retired naval officer has a contract to provide motivational teaching services to the Hayward PD and other city agencies. The contract was approved by the city council two years ago before the couple married.

Also, the City Manager said she could not respond Tuesday to our questions on whether Clark Stuart's contract is still in effect, or if it there was a conflict of interest for the Chief at any time.

Last year, Hayward Fire Chief Garrett Contreras was suspended after investigators found he had driven city vehicles under the influence of alcohol. He was also suspected of fighting with a firefighter, and failing to respond to a major fire.