Seal Beach Police Chief on Paid Administrative Leave During Investigation

SEAL BEACH, CA — City officials confirmed but had no comment regarding Seal Beach Police Chief Joe Stilinovich's paid administrative leave which was met with a fervent plea for the City Council to reconsider their "drastic action" by the Seal Beach Police Foundation.

On Oct. 5, Seal Beach issued a follow up statement on the issue:

"On September 29, 2016, the City of Seal Beach placed Chief Joe Stilinovich on paid administrative leave pending a confidential personnel investigation. The City is issuing this statement to provide the public with as much information as it can at this juncture, and to address some misinformed statements or speculation about this matter.

"The City’s action became necessary because a formal complaint was made against the Chief of Police alleging serious misconduct. Chief Stilinovich, like any employee accused of misconduct, is presumed to be innocent. However, the City has a duty under applicable law to investigate the complaint in question, and it must do so in a manner that is fair to all and protects the privacy rights of all involved parties and witnesses," the City release stated.

"Due to the nature of the complaint, the need to protect the integrity of the independent investigation, and the need to protect the interests of both Chief Stilinovich and the complainant, the City determined that it was necessary to place the Chief on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation."

"While we understand the public’s desire to be informed of the details of the investigation, the City must maintain strict confidentiality in order not to jeopardize the investigation," the city reported. " Thus, we ask for the public’s patience and trust while the investigation progresses. Commander Joe Miller has been appointed Acting Chief of Police until the investigation is complete."

Seal Beach Police Department photo