WDRB
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Southeast Bullitt Fire Corporation Board has approved a paid leave of absence for Fire Chief Julius Hatfield, at his request.
In a letter, Hatfield notes the ongoing investigation into his actions and the department, and states: “My continued presence as acting Chief is no longer in the best interests of the department and has become a distraction from the important work we do.” Hatfield is also the subject of an investigation into alleged financial mismanagement. Information is to be shared with state and federal authorities. The potential evidence could lead to a presentation to the Bullitt County grand jury.
Thomas Leach, a Southeast Bullitt Fire Corporation Board Member discussed why it’s a paid leave instead of unpaid. “If he were found guilty of something or maybe charged with something, maybe we could have thought different,” he said. “In our eyes, he hasn’t been formally charged with anything.” Hatfield stated in the letter that after the investigations are over, “I fully expect to be vindicated and would resume my duties as Chief without the cloud of suspicion that I am currently under.”
Full story: SE Bullitt Fire Chief Julius Hatfield granted paid leave of absence during investigation