Louisville police chief resigns after sexual harassment claims, interim chief appointed | News from WDRB

LOUISVILLE, Kentucky (WDRB) — The Louisville Metro Police Chief has resigned after two sexual harassment lawsuits were filed against the police department.

At a press conference on Tuesday, Mayor Craig Greenberg said Police Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel had resigned after being placed on leave over her handling of allegations of sexual harassment by a senior officer.

“Over the past few weeks, we have learned of a number of allegations of sexual harassment within the department itself,” Greenberg said. “In the last few days, some new details have emerged that are deeply disturbing and disappointing. This is unacceptable and inexcusable. Everyone should be treated with respect.”

According to Greenberg, Gwinn-Villaroel will receive four months’ salary as per her contract and to assist with her transition.

Greenberg said the acting chief, Col. Paul Humphrey, will serve as interim chief until a permanent chief is appointed.

“He understands that the department can only move forward if it continues to make improvements,” Greenberg said. “I value his perspective, his experience and the respect he has earned from his colleagues.”

Humphrey is the sixth person in four years to lead the LMPD. Humphrey joined the department in 2006 and spent several years as an officer in the city’s 1st and 6th Divisions in the Newburg and Russell neighborhoods. He joined the SWAT team in 2010 and became its commander in 2017.

“It is a great honor to serve as interim chief, and I appreciate the Mayor’s trust in me to continue to lead the department forward,” Humphrey said. “Despite the change in leadership, our goal remains the same. I am proud to work with all of the officers and staff of LMPD as they remain committed to protecting and serving the citizens of Louisville.”

LMPD Sexual Harassment Policy

According to Greenberg, LMPD’s sexual harassment policy is currently being revised to better align with Louisville City Council’s policies. The department said the policy has been updated to clarify that officers found to have violated sexual harassment policies will face appropriate disciplinary action, including possible termination.

Officers can now report sexual harassment through the City Council Ethics Hotline or the Human Resources Department. The Ethics Hotline number is (888) 226-2264.

Compulsory training

Greenberg said that following the sexual harassment allegations earlier this month, members of the LMPD command staff were trained in prevention and response. Going forward, the mayor said, all officers and employees will be trained in policies, definitions and ways to report sexual harassment.

“In addition, various support systems are available for employee wellness, including through our Summit Wellness Center,” said Humphrey. “We are committed to responsibility and promote a safe and welcoming work environment where all employees feel comfortable and safe.”

LMPD support systems

The mayor and interim chief also announced new support measures for officers who report cases of sexual harassment, including measures to prevent retaliation.

“To be clear, LMPD does not tolerate sexual harassment,” Humphrey said. “We are implementing important policy updates. We have begun increased training and are revising and improving our reporting and processing processes.”

Greenberg said there will be further announcements soon about what he calls “major improvements and profound reforms” at LMPD.

This is a developing story that will be updated.

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