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Zephyrhills Police Chief, Spokesman Placed On Paid Leave

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By GEOFF FOX | The Tampa Tribune

Published: July 30, 2008

ZEPHYRHILLS - Police Chief Russell Barnes and an administrative sergeant were placed on paid leave Tuesday night.

City Manager Steve Spina said he made the decision after receiving a complaint involving Barnes and Sgt. Rob Perrault. He declined to discuss the nature of the allegations.

Spina said he plans to brief the mayor and city council today about the situation.

The city is conducting an investigation. While Barnes is on leave, Capt. David Shears will head the department, which has about 40 sworn officers.

Barnes said he expects to talk with Spina this afternoon.

"It's way too early to comment," said Barnes, who has been with the department since November 2003. "I was notified about 6:30 last night, and I haven't had a chance to talk to the city manager about the details yet.

"I'm comfortable with what I think the outcome will be."

Perrault, who has been with the department since 1999, serves as its official spokesman and investigates crimes.

"I'm on leave. By rule, I can't comment," he said today.

Reporter Geoff Fox can be reached at (813) 779-4613 or gfox@tampatrib.com.

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