Akron, Ohio police chief resigned after using racial slur, officials say

AKRON, Ohio -- An Ohio police chief was forced to resign in part because of his use of a racial slur in a private conversation, officials said Thursday. 

Akron officials had previously announced that former Chief James Nice was accused of potential misconduct involving an investigation into his nephew, having a sexual relationship with a member of the police force, and making "derogatory remarks." He resigned Sunday.

The city's mayor and its provisional police chief told the Akron Beacon Journal on Thursday the ex-chief, who is white, used a slur against African-Americans. They said no other officers were involved in the conversation.

"The standard is clear in our department," provisional Chief Ken Ball said. "The top guy in our department couldn't say this and get away with it."

Nice's attorney would not confirm a slur was used.

"I'm not certain if he used those words or not," the lawyer said. "If he did, he certainly regrets it."

Mayor Dan Horrigan said Nice's behavior doesn't reflect the values of the police force.

"One man is not the department," he said.

A special prosecutor from neighboring Cuyahoga County has taken over the investigation involving Nice and his nephew.