Findlay fire veteran placed on paid leave

6/10/2010

FINDLAY — A 26-year veteran of the Findlay Fire Department was placed on paid administrative leave after he was accused of failing to follow department policies and procedures.

Safety Director Jim Barker said he decided to place Battalion Chief Richard Clark on paid leave Tuesday after the allegations were raised because Fire Chief Tom Lonyo is on vacation.

“I certainly hope we can vindicate him, and I hope it's just some sour grapes and some miscommunication,” Mr. Barker said. “He's always conducted himself professionally and has the respect of a lot of guys on the department or he wouldn't be a battalion chief with 26 years on.”