CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — The City of Circleville’s Law Director, Kendra C. Kinney, clarified Thursday that investigations into Police Chief Shawn Baer and Acting Chief Douglas Davis are not under the city’s jurisdiction, contrary to media reports.

Kinney stated that the investigations and advisement on matters related to Baer and Davis are being handled by law firms Frost Brown Todd and Fishel Downey Albrecht & Ripenhoff, LLC. She emphasized the need to protect the integrity of ongoing investigations and ensure due process for those involved, refraining from further comment until the investigations conclude or the law firms issue statements.

The clarification comes amid a tumultuous period for Circleville law enforcement. Chief Shawn Baer was placed on administrative leave following allegations of misconduct, including harassment and misuse of position. Deputy Chief Doug Davis was also placed on leave, with reasons undisclosed to protect the investigation’s integrity. However, public records obtained by the Guardian suggest Davis is accused of assaulting Mayor Michelle Blanton.

The incident stems from a closed-door meeting on March 14, where Blanton reportedly fled distressed, leading to a series of allegations and subsequent investigations. Despite the upheaval, no criminal charges have been filed against Davis, and the police department did not file a report on the alleged assault.

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