CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — In a special meeting, the City of Circleville Council met Wednesday and negotiated settlements, concluding ongoing inquiries into Chief Gary Shawn Baer and Deputy Chief Doug Davis, resulting in their separation from the city.
By a margin of 6 to 1, the Circleville Council ratified two ordinances, resolving to disburse $70,000 to now-former Chief Baer a week of pay and allotting 521 hours of accrued personal vacation and sick leave, totaling approximately $24,000, yielding a combined settlement of $94,000. In exchange, Baer will retire as Chief while maintaining his retirement benefits.
Davis similarly assented to a lump sum payment of $69,000 with a week’s pay, alongside compensation for 319 hours of accrued paid time off, summing up to a total settlement of $83,000.
The settlement terms encompass cessation of investigations into allegations encompassing harassment, intimidation, retaliation, misuse of authority, financial improprieties, dereliction of duty, and civil rights violations. The two were put on leave last month after investigations into their conduct, including the deputy chief physically attacking Mayor Michelle Blanton in a meeting that prompted an ambulance to respond.
Councilperson Zach Brooks disclosed that the city disbursed $50,000 to legal firms to handle the cases in addition to the settlements.
A city statement reads, “The decision to engage in separation agreements with Chief Baer and Deputy Chief Davis was motivated by a desire to forestall further disruptions within the city’s police department and mitigate potential future legal expenses.”
Councilwoman Katie Logan Hedges, who endorsed both ordinances, articulated, “While regrettable, this resolution is imperative for the stability and functionality of the police department and the well-being of Circleville’s residents.”
Brooks, who dissented, expressed his dismay, asserting, “There is no justice when egregious acts merit a substantial payout. I anticipate further repercussions from state investigations.”
Brooks reiterated his stance, acknowledging the cost-effectiveness of the settlements while maintaining his dissenting vote.
The agreements also include a non-disparagement clause, stipulating mutual refraining from derogatory remarks and obligating mutual cooperation as necessary.