Virginia Police Chief Reinstated, Mayor 'Shocked'
VIRGINIA, Minn. (AP) -- The Virginia police chief is back on the job even after his officers voted unanimously that they didn't want him as their boss.
Police Chief Dana Waldron had been on administrative leave since January following allegations of misconduct, inefficiencies and insubordination.
The Virginia Police Civil Service Commission ruled Wednesday that the city needed to reinstate Waldron, with back pay. The commission didn't elaborate.
The attorney advising the commission says no written report on the ruling will be issued. The investigatory report and other documents are considered sealed.
Mayor Steve Peterson says he was "shocked" by the ruling. He says he'll ask the City Council to appeal.
Waldron told the Mesabi Daily News he was relieved by the ruling and excited to be back. He also acknowledges having communication problems.
(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)
