Fresno police chief under investigation for alleged “inappropriate off-duty relationship”

The city of Fresno is investigating Police Chief Paco Balderrama on suspicion of having an “inappropriate off-duty relationship” with a non-city employee, according to a press release Thursday evening.

Back in February, Balderrama informed Mayor Jerry Dyer and City Manager Georgeanna White of a possible allegation. The city government has hired a third party to conduct an administrative investigation to determine whether Balderrama violated agency policies.

The investigation is currently under review and Balderrama will remain on duty as police chief, the press release said.

The city did not provide any further details about the nature of the allegation or any explanation as to why an independent investigator would need to investigate a relationship with a “non-city employee.”

In addition, it is unclear why the city issued a press release four months after the allegation was made public but before the investigation into Balderrama was completed.

The press release credits Balderrama for “rebuilding the ranks of the Fresno Police Department and dramatically reducing the violent crime rate.”

“Until the investigation is completed and thoroughly reviewed, we ask you to
judgment in this confidential personnel matter,” the press release said. “Chief Balderrama will remain on duty and continue to serve as the Chief of Police of Fresno.”

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