Greenfield police chief on administrative leave; assistant chief appointed role

Greenfield assistant police chief takes on new role

Greenfield Police Chief Jay Johnson was placed on administrative leave on Friday, April 25 over "workplace concerns" and now assistant chief Eric Lindstrom has been appointed the role.

GREENFIELD, Wis. - The mayor of Greenfield tells FOX6 News that "workplace concerns" are the reasons why that city's police chief is now on leave. 

Greenfield Police Chief Jay Johnson

Police chief on leave

What we know:

Greenfield Mayor Michael Neitzke said Police Chief Jay Johnson was placed on administrative leave on Friday, April 25.

Johnson has been the head of the Greenfield Police Department since 2019, when he was appointed chief of police. But Johnson has worked for the department for much longer. He started his time with Greenfield as an officer back in 1992 and has been a captain and lieutenant. 

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Officials say Johnson was placed on administrative leave "while the city conducts an independent review of workplace concerns."

What they're saying:

Mayor Neitzke said the following in a statement: 

"...Because this is a personnel matter and the review is ongoing, the City will not be providing additional details at this time. Our priority is to ensure a thorough, fair process and to maintain the continued safety and effective service of the Greenfield Police Department for our community."

FOX6 News also reached out to Common Council members and they referred back to Neitzke's statement. 

FOX6 News also reached out to Police and Fire Commission members but have not heard back. 

Special meeting

What's next:

On Wednesday evening, April 30, the five-member commission went into closed session during a special meeting to discuss the appointment of an acting police chief. They unanimously voted for Assistant Chief Eric Lindstrom to fill the role.

Assistant Chief Eric Lindstrom

FOX6 News tried to speak with Lindstrom, but was told he was not doing any interviews.

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According to the city's website, Lindstrom has been with the department since 2003. He was promoted to patrol sergeant in 2015, detective sergeant in 2017 and captain in 2018.

The Greenfield Common Council also had a special meeting and approved hiring a private investigative firm – but it is unclear if that decision is related to Johnson.

Greenfield police chief 'workplace concerns'

Greenfield's police chief was placed on administrative leave over what the mayor said were "workplace concerns."