CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio – Circleville Police Chief Shawn Baer has been placed on administrative leave and is no longer on active duty, according to a report by the Pickaway County Sheriff’s Office.
The leave comes after a series of allegations were lodged against Baer. A letter from the Mayor dated for March 11 to Baer reads, “Please be advised that the City of Circleville is conducting an investigation into allegations of potential misconduct by you, including, but not limited to the following: harassment, intimidation, retaliation, threats of discipline, misuse of position, improper threats, failure to adhere to deadlines, and timekeeping violations. Consequently, you are hereby placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of this investigation.”
Sheriff Hafey was contacted by Circleville Mayor Michelle Blanton following Baer’s suspension. Baer was escorted from the mayor’s office to the police department to collect personal items before being driven home by Hafey, who then seized Baer’s firearms, badge, and keys.
In the interim, Deputy Chief Doug Davis will assume the position of Police Chief. The Guardian has reached out to the mayor’s office for comment but has not received a response.
This development follows a controversial incident in which Officer Ryan Speakman released his K-9 on a surrendering truck driver. The incident sparked international outcry, leading to protests and calls for Baer’s removal. The impact of this incident on Baer’s dismissal remains unclear.
