Who is responsible for determining if an employee alleged to have engaged in unlawful conduct should be placed on administrative leave with pay?

The PSB Commander or their designee is responsible for determining whether an employee alleged to have engaged in unlawful conduct should be placed on administrative leave with pay. This is rooted in the administrative processes and protocols established within law enforcement agencies, which typically designate the Professional Standards Bureau (PSB) or the equivalent oversight body as the initial point of review for allegations against employees.

The PSB is tasked with investigating potential misconduct and ensuring compliance with policies and laws, which includes evaluating the severity of the allegations to judge whether immediate action, such as administrative leave, is warranted. This decision-making authority is part of maintaining the integrity of the investigation process and can also safeguard the rights of the employee involved while ensuring that the workplace remains safe and professional during the review period.

In this structure, while the Chief of Police, Human Resources Director, and Sheriff each have significant roles in the overarching management and oversight of departmental operations, the specific authority to assess allegations and determine the need for administrative leave is typically vested in the PSB Commander or their designee to ensure proper procedures are followed in alignment with policy.