By ANDREA POTEET
Sunday Times Newspapers
MELVINDALE – The city’s police chief has reportedly been reinstated to his lieutenant position after being fired as police chief Tuesday.
At a Public Safety Commission meeting Wednesday, Chad Hayse, who was appointed interim police chief upon the January retirement of former Chief Rick Cadez, was reinstated to his former position, a reversal from the commission’s decision Tuesday night to fire him for reasons that have not been released.
At a special city council meeting later that day, councilors reinstated him to his chief position, his lawyer, Royal Oak-based David Gorcyca, said. Gorcyca said he is reviewing the city charter to see which decision is binding.
“He’s now caught between the police commission and the council,” Gorcyca said Friday. “He currently holds two positions.”
Gorcyca called the police commission a “kangaroo court,” and alleged that Hayes’ due process, contractual and union rights were violated.
Calls to City Clerk Diana Zarazua and City Administrator Jim Beri were not returned by press time.