Attorneys for Jordan Wamhoff, who is also an elected Madera County Supervisor, said the city is conducting an investigation into their client.

“This is not an investigation — it is a vendetta,” attorney Brian Whelan wrote to the city on Friday, Feb. 21, in a letter obtained by GV Wire from a source other than Whelan and Wamhoff.

The city informed Wamhoff about the investigation in January. Whelan would not comment on the nature of the investigation.

A source with knowledge of the situation said the city is investigating a complaint filed against Wamhoff, but didn’t elaborate further. Another source said the investigation doesn’t have  anything to do with Wamhoff’s conduct as an officer.

City Attorney Andrew Janz provided a statement to GV Wire acknowledging an investigation is underway.

“The City Attorney’s Office has and will continue to conduct this administrative investigation in accordance with City policy and procedures. Our normal process is to keep these internal inquiries confidential until there are findings made by the factfinder to preserve the integrity of the investigation,” Janz said.

“Since Mr. Wamhoff and his attorneys are so eager to make public the claim of ‘criminal misconduct’ levied against him, I will refer all questions regarding the contents of the preservation letter to Mr. Whelan.  The City of Fresno will not provide further comment pending completion of this investigation.”

Related Story: Former Fresno Police Chief Balderrama Makes His Next Career Move

Although Whelan told GV Wire he was not claiming a criminal investigation, upon further review the letter did say the city “has manufactured a baseless claim of criminal misconduct in a desperate attempt to justify what will obviously turn into an unlawful retaliation and wrongful termination lawsuit.”

City Hall spokesperson Sontaya Rose said the city will not comment because it is a pending legal matter.

“If there is a full, thorough and complete investigation that is truly independent, we are confident that Officer Wamhoff will continue his employment with the Fresno Police Officer. Anything short of that would be unlawful retaliation,” Whelan told GV Wire.

Preservation of City Records Sought by Wamhoff’s Attorney

The two sides had a meeting on Monday, but neither side is discussing what happened.

The letter also asked for the city to preserve several records.

The Fresno Police Officers Association, the police union, is standing behind Wamhoff. They are providing Whelan and Will Yamada, an attorney who specializes in California Peace Officer Bill of Rights cases.

“We hope that this chapter will be over for Jordan soon. And we look forward to having him back on the street,” FPOA president Sgt. Jeff La Blue said.

Claim in Attorney’s Letter: Dyer Laughed at Accusation

Wamhoff accused Balderrama of having an extramarital affair with his wife. Furthermore, Balderrama denied Wamhoff a lateral transfer that would have allowed him more time to spend with his family. That move also allowed Balderrama to carry on the affair, the letter alleges.

The city conducted an investigation by firm Atkinson Andelson, but kept it under wraps until rumblings from the media including GV Wire erupted in May and June of 2024.

The city placed Balderrama on administrative leave on June 12, 2024. On June 25, 2024, Balderrama announced his resignation effective a month later.

The city named Mindy Casto as Balderrama’s interim replacement. She received a promotion to the full-time job earlier this month.

During the announcement of Balderrama’s resignation, City Manager Georgeanne White said the investigation did not sustain an allegation of abuse of authority.

“The circumstances surrounding this so-called investigation make clear that it is nothing more than an act of retaliation-one designed to punish Officer Wamhoff for exposing misconduct at the highest levels of the Fresno Police Department,” Whelan wrote.

Whelan said the city’s actions violate state labor code, the California Peace Officer Bill of Rights, and “fundamental principles of fairness and due process.”

Attorney’s Letter: Wamhoff Blew Whistle on Chief in February 2024

According to Whelan’s letter, Wamhoff reported Balderrama’s conduct to Janz on Feb. 16, 2024.

Whelan’s letter said Mayor Jerry Dyer met with Balderrama on Feb. 17, 2024, and later that day Dyer and Wamhoff spoke. Wamhoff reportedly told Dyer he feared for his safety, believing “Paco will kill me. He has been backed into a corner. I need you take his gun away.”

The letter accused Dyer of downplaying Wamhoff’s complaints. Dyer, according to Wamhoff, laughed off his concerns in a conversation they had at a private event in Madera County in May 2024.

“Affairs happen all the time, Jordan. Paco has been a good police chief, and he’s not going anywhere,” Dyer allegedly told the officer.

Related Story: Dyer, FPOA, Officer’s Attorney Weigh in on Police Chief Paco ...

Allegation: City Used Benefits to Retaliate

The letter also accuses the city of attempting to coerce Wamhoff regarding his disability benefits. A section in the state labor code allows police officers up to a year in disability time off.

Wamhoff accused the city of not fully providing disability benefits — for a knee injury and stress caused by the Balderrama incident — unless he dropped a Serious and Willful claim, which Whelan said could increase the city’s liability by 50%.

“In essence, the City held his financial security hostage — illegally withholding benefits in an attempt to coerce him into abandoning a valid claim. This was not just unethical; it was illegal,” Whelan wrote.

An arbitrator in November eventually forced the city to pay Wamhoff’s disability claim, Whelan said.

Whelan called the city’s efforts, “retaliatory economic coercion” and an “abuse of power.”

Related Story: Embattled Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama Resigns: ‘Right Time for Me ...

Read the Letter

The post Fresno Police Officer: City Retaliates After I Blew Whistle on Balderrama appeared first on GV Wire.

Fresno Interim Police Chief Mindy Casto was appointed on Thursday morning as the new permanent leader of the city’s police force.

Casto’s appointment was made by Fresno City Manager Georganne White and Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer.

Casto succeeds Paco Balderrama, who resigned last summer after being accused of having an affair with the wife of a Fresno police officer.

Original Story 

Interim Chief Mindy Casto is looking to move on from the recent black eye on the Fresno Police Department.

Casto, a 27-year department veteran, was named to the department’s top job after Paco Balderrama resigned as chief on June 25. An investigation revealed Balderrama had an affair with the wife of another Fresno police officer. That created distrust with the police union and was a sign of “poor discretion,” Mayor Jerry Dyer said.

Balderrama will remain on the payroll and will serve as a consultant until July 25.

Related Story: Embattled Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama Resigns: ‘Right Time for Me ...

Casto, 48, wants to maintain the department’s work of reducing homicides and violent crime. She also wants to sharpen the department’s focus on auto traffic accidents and fatalities.

City Manager Georgeanne White and Dyer will be formulating the process on selecting the next chief. Dyer said it will be a national search, using a consulting firm. It could take up to five months, he said.

Casto sat down with GV Wire last week for a one-on-one interview about her goals, her background, and her future.

Even though she has the chief’s full rights and responsibilities, Casto chooses to wear only two stars on her collar. Typically, the chief wears four stars.

“That’s just what we’re going to do. I mean, this is a temporary role, and obviously all the responsibility comes with it as a full time. But it is an interim role, so I think it’s just most appropriate,” Casto said.

She does not know yet if she wants the job full time.

“It’s truly a family decision,” said Casto, whose husband and son also serve on the force. “It could be a financial decision. I just don’t know. This was obviously thrust upon all of us in this department and in such a short time. I’ve kind of joked that I feel like I’m in a blender, so that’s not really something I can spend a lot of time thinking about right now, because there’s much work to be done, and I’m really trying to focus on that.”

A Call from the City Manager

The city first placed Balderrama on paid leave on June 12. White called Casto asking if she was willing to take over, first as acting chief.

“Of course, the answer’s yes. I mean, I’m pretty dutiful. This department’s pretty much given me everything that I have. It’s been good to me over my entire career since I was, you know, younger than 18. So, the answer was yes. Anything I can do to help,” Casto said.

Casto started as  cadet. She rose through the ranks, to sergeant in 2003, lieutenant in 2015, captain in 2018, deputy chief in 2022, and now interim chief. Rising through the ranks wasn’t her top priority.

“I never really looked for the next promotion. When an opportunity would arise, I’d take it. But that’s one of my beliefs as (a tenet of) leadership is if you’re always looking for the next rank or the next promotion, it’s hard to make good decisions at the rank that you are,” Casto said.

She says she’s enjoyed having a positive influence over the community and those she worked with.

Transition to Chief

Casto said despite her promotion, the leadership team remains intact.

“It’s not just about me,” Casto said. “I may have elevated. Chief Balderrama may be gone, but the same people are making the good decisions. And just ultimately, it’s my responsibility for how things go.”

As deputy chief, Casto handled the support division. She praised her three fellow deputies, Mark Salazar, head of the investigation division, “a brilliant mind when it comes to violent crime”; patrol division leader Michael Landon, “a great decisionmaker and calm in the eye of the storm”; and administrative division leader Burke Farrah, “a great educator, very smart, experienced.”

Casto is ready to move on from the Balderrama controversy.

“This is a distraction. But there’s work to do and this community doesn’t deserve anything less than us focusing on getting the job done,” Casto said.

Her workload has only gotten busier, she said. She already keeps her phone with her 24/7, even bedside when she sleeps.

“God forbid an officer gets hurt or there’s a major crime in the city that you know is very impactful. You need to know about it, and you need to be able to respond. (That has) even just amped up another level … it penetrates every waking moment and every sleeping moment as well,” Casto said.

First Female (and Mother) as Chief

Even if it is just temporary, Casto is the first female — and first mother — to lead the department.

“I’m pretty good at seeing both sides of an issue. And I don’t know if that comes from being a mom or other experience that I have had, but it has been a little bit being like a parent in any leadership role, because the officers need to know that you care about them, but you also have to hold them accountable when things go wrong. Otherwise, we don’t maintain the trust of the community. So that’s a delicate balance,” Casto said.

While she is satisfied with response time to emergency calls, the department can do better for non-emergency calls.

“Officers are busy, and I would love to be able to improve some of our service levels. I have ideas, some of them are technology-based, others are deployment-based, and we’re going to keep working on that,” Casto said.

Improving Traffic Safety

Casto is proud of the reductions in violent crime this year. So far, there have been only 14 homicides, on pace to be less than 35 in 2023. She said there has been a 46% reduction in shootings compared to last year as well.

She said making a bunch of arrests isn’t the best practice to reduce violence. Now, officers focus on “intelligence-driven policing,” partnering with other agencies and community groups.

Casto is concerned about the 30 road fatalities so far this year.

“I’m going to admit, one of the things I least liked doing as a police officer was writing citations. But the truth is that enforcement does work. It does change driving behavior,” Casto said. “It’s one of the complaints I get the most when I talk to the public is about the wild drivers out there.”

The department has a unit of 36 officers working traffic each week. Others can be pulled in to help. She said citations are up, and injury collisions are down 7% compared to this time last year.

The worst intersections according to Fresno police data are Blackstone and Shaw avenues, Fresno and Shaw avenues, and Olive and Fresno avenues. More traffic officers will be deployed at those locations, she said.

An $850,000 grant from the state Office of Traffic Safety helps with 58 DUI and traffic safety operations a year. Last month, the department arrested 12 in a saturation patrol.

Casto said the department is sending traffic officers to community events to help educate on safety.

“We know enforcement does work, but we definitely want to be on the community engagement side and offer education about what are the impacts of DUI driving, for instance, or … the rules of the road. Some people just aren’t that familiar with them,” Casto said.

A Kid from Caruthers

Casto grew up in Caruthers. “Caruthers High School, just like Margaret Mims,” she said, referring to the longtime Fresno County sheriff.

Her family farmed, and her mom owned a beauty shop.

“I grew up out on the country. FFA president, thought that’s the direction I was going in high school until I went on a ride along with Mayor Dyer’s sister (Officer Diane Dyer), who my mom happened to know. And, that was all she wrote. That was my decision-making factor, was that first ride along,” Casto said.

What motivated her into law enforcement?

“It is just the opportunity to make such a difference in other people’s lives, to be the one that comes when someone needs help and they’re calling 911. Obviously, you can’t change the world. You’re one person. But that little saying you can change the world for one person? It’s true,” Casto said.

“It’s a good feeling to be able to make an impact in people’s lives,” she said.

She joined Fresno police as a 16-year-old explorer — it allowed her to go on more ride alongs — and later as a 19-year-old cadet. In 1997, she joined the department full time as an officer.

She earned her degree online from California Coast University.

“I started when there were a lot of police officers who were first hired in the 1970s, but I’ve never been anything but mentored by a fantastic group of men and women,” Casto said.

Three Castos in the Department

Not only does Casto’s husband work in the department — Sgt. Steve Casto — but so does her son, Brenden, who joined the force last year.

She was surprised about her son’s choice.

“I imagine he probably wouldn’t prefer to have our last name sometimes, you know? He’s his own independent person, and he gets the job done. He’s been raised to have a really strong work ethic, and I think it’s going to serve him well. He doesn’t need our name or me or anybody else to help pave the way for him. He’s going to do it on his own,” Casto said.

Casto said there is a department policy and city code that prevents her from directly commanding her relatives.

She met her husband when both were working for the department. They’ve been married since 2008.

“We met as field training officers, and we knew each other for a couple of years, and we didn’t start dating until we were both sergeants, maybe two years later,” Casto said.

She doesn’t mind if people call her by a different last name, like “Castro.”

“It’s OK. I’m called Mandy, too. It doesn’t bother me,” she said.

Watch: Exclusive Full Interview with Interim Chief Mindy Casto

The post Mindy Casto Now Heads Fresno PD. She Wants to Focus on ‘Wild Drivers,’ Lower Traffic Deaths appeared first on GV Wire.

Mayor Jerry Dyer, City Manager Georgeanne White and City Attorney Andrew Janz made the announcement at a Tuesday morning news conference at City Hall.

“We do believe this resignation by the chief is in the best interests of the community, the police department and our employees, as well as for Chief Balderrama and the families involved, given the intense media scrutiny that this matter has received,” Dyer said.

Dyer said this was the most difficult decision in his three-plus years as mayor.

“This ranks up at the at the top,” Dyer said.

Casto Now Interim Chief

Mindy Casto, already named acting chief, will now serve as interim chief, White said.

Casto worked her way up the chain of command since starting as a 16-year old police explorer in the 1990s. She started as an officer with Fresno Police in 1997.

The department promoted her to sergeant in 2003, lieutenant in 2015, captain in 2018, and deputy chief in 2022. She is the first female to lead the Fresno Police Department.

“The city manager and I have complete trust and confidence in Acting Chief Mindy Casto to run the police department during this transition,” Dyer said.

Dyer plans for a national search to start immediately, with a goal of hiring a new chief in five months. Dyer said the search would likely use outside consultants and police management groups.

Investigation Started in February

They city said Balderrama informed Dyer and White about an inappropriate relationship on Feb. 17.

The city acknowledged the investigation on June 6, after GV Wire and other media reported stories about Balderrama’s impropriety. He initially stayed on the job, until White placed him on paid leave on June 12.

While the city has characterized Balderrama’s action as an “off-duty relationship he was involved in with a non-city employee,” Dyer and White acknowledged the nature of the affair.

Although not mentioned during Tuesday’s news conference, GV Wire learned that Balderrama carried on an affair for more than two years with the wife of a police officer under his command, Jordan Wamhoff.

Wamhoff is an elected member of the Madera County Board of Supervisors and a former vice president of the Fresno Police Officers Association.

Balderrama’s contract with the city requires 30 days’ notice. He will serve with the department as a consultant until July 25. The city did not offer a severance package. White said Balderrama will turn in his equipment, including his badge and gun, in the coming days.

After serving as deputy chief in Oklahoma City, Balderrama started as police chief in January 2021, weeks after Dyer — the former chief — started as mayor. Dyer did not directly hire Balderrama. Lee Brand hired Balderrama a month before, with consultation from Dyer.

Janz said Andrew Aller of Fresno-based law firm Atkinson, Andelson, Loya, Rudd & Romo handled the investigation on behalf of the city. Invoices through May totaled $25,000.

‘Poor Discretion’

White pushed back on the media narrative that Balderrama held back the career of the aggrieved party. Both she and Dyer denied that Balderrama abused his authority.

“I am able to state that this allegation was not sustained and evidence to the contrary was presented,” White said. “This does not excuse Chief Balderrama behavior as it relates to the inappropriate relationship because, as he has stated, those actions cannot be justified or defended and are below the standards that he holds for himself and that we hold for the chief of police for the city of Fresno.”

Brian Whelan, attorney for the aggrieved officer, disputed that finding.

“These efforts included a request to honor a 2022 agreement in which Balderrama promised my client a specific position within the department. Balderrama later reneged on this agreement in a bid to further his extramarital affair, a clear violation of professional and ethical standards,” Whelan said.

“Although the city’s investigation — funded by the city — did not officially uphold the allegation that Balderrama abused his authority to assign this position to another officer, his resignation stands as undeniable evidence of his misconduct and breach of public trust,” Whelan said.

Dyer said that Balderrama exercised poor judgment.

“He did involve himself in an inappropriate relationship, used poor discretion in doing so, and that is far below the standard that we have as an expectation of our police chief,” Dyer said.

Aggrieved Officer’s Attorney Responds

The aggrieved officer notified the city of the alleged affair between his wife and Balderrama, Whelan said in a statement to GV Wire.

Whelan called Balderrama’s resignation “a significant victory for justice and integrity.”

“This resignation is a direct result of the courageous actions of my client, who bravely stepped forward in February to expose the misconduct and breaches of trust perpetrated by Balderrama,” Whelan said.

“My client’s fortitude has not only brought relief to himself but also to the numerous Fresno Police officers who have been betrayed by Balderrama’s actions. Any attempt by the city to spin this resignation as anything other than Balderrama facing the consequences of his misconduct is a misrepresentation of reality.

“The reality is clear: Paco Balderrama’s own unethical behavior is the reason for his departure. It is deeply regrettable that it took media scrutiny, rather than decisive action and a commitment to police ethics and moral clarity, to spur the city’s decision-makers into action.

Whelan called this a “conclusion” to the matter.

“It is now time to move forward, especially for the young children of both families affected by these actions, who deserve a future free from the shadows of these events,” Whelan said.

Balderrama Issues Statement

Balderrama did not appear at the news conference. The city provided a statement from Balderrama:

“Serving as Chief of Police for the City of Fresno over the last three and one-half years has truly been the privilege of a lifetime. I want to thank the administration for giving me this opportunity. The men and women of the Fresno Police Department are second to none.

“During this period, we have been able to grow the department to an allotted 926 positions, reduced violent and property crime by double digits, and leveraged communication and technology to become a more effective police department. Perhaps most importantly, all members have embraced our community engagement efforts which have significantly increased trust with those we serve.

“The people of Fresno are beautiful, diverse, and very supportive of their police department. Even through my most difficult trials you have been kind, forgiving, and uplifting. Thank you for being there for me. The rewarding part of the job has not been the huge responsibility, job stress, or intense work. It has always been the people. I will miss both the Fresno community and every member of the Fresno Police Department. I have no doubt that this group of hard-working and compassionate police officers and professional staff will continue to thrive and do great things. This is the right time for me to step away and focus on my faith and family. I love you.”

Dyer Disappointed, But Praises Balderrama

Dyer said he was disappointed when Balderrama first informed him of the affair. Dyer said Balderrama was “remorseful.”

Dyer expects Balderrama to become a chief again someday.

“Whether or not Chief Balderrama is hirable in the future by an outside agency is really lies in the hands of that governing body. I do believe that he has hiring potential. And I do believe that he’ll receive another police chief’s job in the future should he choose to pursue one,” Dyer said.

If asked about Balderrama by another mayor, Dyer said he would be transparent about the former chief’s good qualities, but also about the events leading to the resignation.

Dyer praised him for reducing homicide and other crime rates, recruiting 300 officers and dispatchers, and building partnerships with other law enforcement agencies.

Balderrama applied in May to become police chief in Austin, Texas. Austin plans to make its hiring decision in July.

Police Union Responds

The Fresno Police Officers Association issued a statement, supporting the investigation and the Balderrama resignation.

” The FPOA agrees with the City that Paco Balderrama’s resignation is best for all parties involved,” FPOA President Bandon Wiemiller said in a statement.

“We know our officers, along with our community, are seeking closure and understanding. Despite the turmoil of recent days, our officers remain undaunted in their mission to protect, serve, and care for the citizens of Fresno. As this chapter closes, we look to the future. The FPOA has full faith and confidence in the existing, highly qualified leadership to move our agency forward,” Wiemiller said.

Dyer said he feels badly for the officers and employees, understanding how Balderrama’s actions affected morale.

City Manager Criticizes Media Coverage

White criticized media coverage of the Balderrama affair and investigation, calling it salacious, a distraction and a “media circus.”

She criticized one organization for printing unsubstantiated facts without a byline.

The Police Officer Bill of Rights, which also applies to the chief, prevented the city from speaking until the investigation finished.

“I’s been very frustrating,” White said. “We’ve tried to block out the noise and the false narrative that’s been put out there and keep our heads down and work on getting this investigation completed and to make the best decisions for the city of Fresno.”

Dyer called some of the reporting “inaccurate due to unreliable sources, which has proven to be unfair to both of the families involved. And especially the children who have suffered greatly throughout this ordeal.”

GV Wire asked Dyer, isn’t Balderrama solely responsible for what was perceived by some as negative coverage?

“I don’t want this to be about the media. I want this to be about the fact that we had an individual who made poor choices. And, as a result of those poor choices, he’s accepted responsibility. And the consequences and those consequences are that he resigned as police chief of the city of Fresno,” Dyer said.

Council President Responds

The Fresno City Council met several times in the last few weeks in closed session discussing the Balderrama matter. Although the council does not hire or fire the police chief, it does have to approve any potential lawsuit settlement.

“Our focus now is on healing and rebuilding the trust that has been shaken. We will work tirelessly to ensure that our police department continues to serve and protect our community with the highest level of professionalism and dedication,” City Council President Annalisa Perea said in a statement.

The post Dyer, FPOA, Officer’s Attorney Weigh in on Police Chief Paco Balderrama’s Resignation appeared first on GV Wire.

Fresno City Manger Georgeanne White said at a Tuesday morning news conference that Police Chief Paco Balderrama has resigned.

Mayor Jerry Dyer praised Balderrama for his accomplishments in Fresno while also saying that the chief’s resignation was in the best interests of the city and the police department.

The city will conduct a national search for Balderrama’s successor, Dyer and White said.

Until that hire is made, Deputy Chief Mindy Casto will continue as interim chief, Dyer said.

The mayor also said that there’s no reason why Balderrama couldn’t serve as a police chief of another city “and I expect him to do so.”

Original Story

The city of Fresno has completed its investigation into Police Chief Paco Balderrama, multiple sources tell GV Wire.

Now, any decision about whether Balderrama soon returns to work, is disciplined, or let go is in the hands of City Manager Georgeanne White.

The city placed Balderrama on paid leave June 12, after reports of an inappropriate relationship surfaced. White subsequently named Deputy Chief Mindy Casto as acting chief.

While the city has characterized it as an “off-duty relationship he was involved in with a non-city employee,” GV Wire has learned that Balderrama allegedly carried on an affair for more than two years with the wife of a police officer under his command, Jordan Wamhoff.

Multiple sources told GV Wire that Wamhoff’s attorney is negotiating with the city for a resolution. Wamhoff is an elected member of the Madera County Board of Supervisors and a former vice president of the Fresno Police Officers Association.

Related Story: Balderrama Applies for Texas Police Chief Job

No Government Code claim has been filed with the city, the first step for a potential lawsuit. The city became aware of the alleged affair in February. The law sets a six-month time limit to file a claim.

A source with knowledge of the situation but not authorized to speak publicly told GV Wire that Wamhoff had asked for a different role in the department which would not require him to work weekends and thus enable him to spend more time with his family.

Balderrama allegedly went back on his word to grant the move, to carry on the extramarital affair.

The city hasn’t issued any statements or updates on Balderrama’s situation. The police chief did not respond to a GV Wire request for comment.

Policy Violations?

The City Attorney’s Office handled the Balderrama probe, using an outside investigator. City Attorney Andrew Janz has declined to name the investigator. In addition, there hasn’t been an  internal affairs report on Balderrama’s alleged affair, a police source told GV Wire.

The city’s 734-page policy manual does not directly forbid affairs with another officer’s wife. However, there are several sections dealing with morals and ethics.

Related Story: Arias Asks the Big Question: Is Benching Chief Balderrama About Race?

For example, the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics, found at the beginning of the manual, says “I will keep my private life unsullied as an example to all.” It also says personal feelings, prejudices or animosities will not influence decisions.

Section 341.2.5 (ac) regarding performance standards and conduct which may result in discipline reads: “any other on-duty or -of-duty conduct which any member knows or reasonably should know is unbecoming a member of the Department or which is contrary to good order, efficiency or morale, or which tends to reflect unfavorable upon the Department or its members.”

The post Fresno Investigation into Police Chief Balderrama Is Finished: Sources appeared first on GV Wire.

Balderrama, Fresno chief since Jan. 2021, is on paid administrative leave as the city investigates allegations he had an inappropriate relationship with a non-city employee. Media reports said Balderrama had an alleged two-year affair with the wife of a police officer under his command.

Fresno City Manager Georgeanne White placed Balderrama on leave on June 12. The move came hours after Balderrama answered questions from the city council about the budget, followed by a tense impromptu news conference with reporters.

Related Story: Arias Asks the Big Question: Is Benching Chief Balderrama About Race?

Balderrama Is One of 32 Austin Applicants

The Texas capital city — with a population of just under 1 million — accepted applications between May 15 and June 10. It is unclear when Balderrama turned in his application.

Balderrama is one of 32 applicants, the newspaper reported, and not the only one with baggage. For example, the former chief of the Montgomery, Alabama department resigned after a sexual discrimination charge. The former Seattle, Washington chief faced misconduct charges.

Austin City Manager T.C. Broadnax makes the hiring decisions. The city is also using a recruiting service, Mosaic Public Partners.

The department is led by interim Chief Robin Henderson, who took over last year when former Chief Joseph Chacon retired. Neither Henderson nor others on Austin’s police leadership team applied for the job.

Austin officials said in a news release that the field would be narrowed to an undetermined amount, with interviews scheduled for July. The city council would vote on confirmation of the finalist.

Related Story: Fresno Police Union: Members Feel Betrayed, Trust Lost in Chief Balderrama

The post Balderrama Applies for Texas Police Chief Job appeared first on GV Wire.

In comments from the dais during Thursday’s council meeting, Arias asked the media to leave Balderrama’s family out of stories and openly questioned if Balderrama’s race is a factor in a decision by the administration of Mayor Jerry Dyer to place the chief on paid administrative leave.

Balderrama became the first Latino chief in Fresno history upon taking the job in January 2021.

Related Story: Fresno Police Chief Balderrama on Paid Leave, City Manager Says

“Our city has a well-documented track record of not taking personal action against white executive leaders that engage in extramarital affairs with city employees under their command,” Arias said. “I was continuously told that such behavior was not a personnel matter for the city. In short, the city had no business looking into the bedrooms of our city officials or employees as it relates to employment status, a position I fully support.”

City Manager Georgeanne White put Balderrama on paid leave Wednesday afternoon. The city is investigating Balderrama for “an inappropriate off-duty relationship he was involved in with a non-city employee.”

Although the city would not clarify, according to published reports, the alleged relationship was with the spouse of a Fresno police officer, lasting more than two years.

“Why is it a violation when an executive of color makes the same mistake with non-employees?” Arias said.

FPOA Met Wednesday

Arias also questioned the police union, Fresno Police Officers Association, for protecting its members for alleged misdeeds, but not standing up for Balderrama. Arias said several city unions, including FPOA, believe discipline for extramarital affairs is off limits.

“As a policy maker entrusted with ensuring policies are applied fairly to our employees, that is concerning,” Arias said.

Balderrama is a member of the union.

The FPOA executive board met Wednesday afternoon.

“The FPOA Board of Directors agrees with the city placing Chief Balderrama on paid administrative leave pending the conclusion of their investigation” and that it “is in the best interest of all parties involved,” FPOA leadership said in a message to members.

The executive board added, “We believe this will restore stability to our department after a period of great turmoil.”

GV Wire is awaiting a response from FPOA on the statements by Arias.

Related Story: ‘All I Can Do Is Ask for Your Forgiveness,’ Fresno’s Top Cop ...

Arias Monitoring ‘From the Sideline’

Arias also said that he is concerned about litigation fallout. He says his office will monitor the Balderrama investigation “from the sideline.”

“If a double standard is applied for employees of color, I will bring forward a city policy to address how we handle extramarital affairs across all employee groups. I do not believe that government belongs in our doctor’s offices and our homes, much less than our bedrooms,” Arias said.

Mayor Dyer declined to comment.

Balderrama Scheduled for Atlanta Conference

Prior to his paid leave, Balderrama was set to attend Flock Forward, a police conference in Atlanta organized by Flock Safety — a public safety technology company.

“Chief Balderrama was scheduled to speak at our conference, but he will not be speaking and is not onsite,” a Flock Safety spokesperson told GV Wire, contradicting other local media published reports.

The conference hotel said Balderrama was not a guest there.

Police Brass Attends Council Meeting

Several members of police leadership attended the council meeting in support of Capt. Anthony Martinez, who is leaving the department to become Fresno State police chief. Mindy Casto, named acting chief by White, participated in the ceremony.

Balderrama’s name never came up.

Related Story: Fresno Police Union: Members Feel Betrayed, Trust Lost in Chief Balderrama

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White also said that Deputy Chief Mindy Casto “will have operational control” of the department immediately.

Last week, Mayor Jerry Dyer’s administration announced it had launched an investigation into Balderrama for “an inappropriate off-duty relationship he was involved in with a non-city employee.”

According to published reports, the alleged relationship was with the spouse of a Fresno police officer, lasting more than two years.

“In light of the intense public scrutiny surrounding the administrative investigation and the best interest of all parties involved, Chief Balderrama will be placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation,” White wrote in the email.

City Attorney Andrew Janz’s office is conducting the investigation, using an outside investigator. Janz on Wednesday did not have an updated timetable of when the investigation will be complete.

In an email message to its members, the Fresno Police Officers Association’s executive board said that it “agrees with the city placing Chief Balderrama on paid administrative leave pending the conclusion of their investigation” and that it “is in the best interest of all parties involved.”

Added the FPOA executive board: “We believe this will restore stability to our department after a period of great turmoil.”

City spokesperson Sontaya Rose declined to comment about Balderrama being placed on paid leave. And, Balderrama declined to comment as well.

Balderrama Publicly Vowed to Stay

Just hours earlier, Balderrama held an impromptu news conference, vowing to remain on duty.

“I am human. I am imperfect. I work extremely hard. So I plan on continuing to lead this police department to even greater heights,” Balderrama said outside Fresno City Council chambers.

Balderrama had earlier appeared in front of the city council for budget hearings.

The police union, the Fresno Police Officers’ Association, held an emergency executive meeting Wednesday afternoon.

FPOA President Brandon Wiemiller declined to comment about the meeting discussions.

Read the City Manager’s Email

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“I am human. I am imperfect. I work extremely hard. So I plan on continuing to lead this police department to even greater heights,” Balderrama said at an impromptu news conference Wednesday outside Fresno City Council chambers.

Last week, Mayor Jerry Dyer’s administration announced it launched an investigation into Balderrama for “an inappropriate off-duty relationship he was involved in with a non-city employee.”

According to a published report, the alleged relationship was with the spouse of a Fresno police officer, lasting more than two years.

Balderrama appeared publicly for the first since news broke last week of the investigation. He spoke to the city council during budget hearings.

He spoke to the media during the lunch break saying he could not discuss the ongoing investigation.

“This is the most difficult time in my life and in my family’s life. So, I do ask for a little bit of grace. I do ask for a little bit of forgiveness. I’ve never claimed to be perfect,” Balderrama said.

On Monday, Balderrama sent an email to police staff, asking for forgiveness. On Wednesday, he emphasized that he wrote it “myself” and it came from the heart.

Related Story: ‘All I Can Do Is Ask for Your Forgiveness,’ Fresno’s Top Cop ...

Says Family Forgave Him

Balderrama also talked about his family.

“I’m also very proud of my family. And I can tell you that, I owe them forgiveness. And I’ve gotten it,” Balderrama said.

He asked the media not to ask “salacious questions.”

“My family is not doing well and I’m not doing well. But despite that, I will continue being the chief of one of the best police departments in America,” Balderrama said.

Balderrama said if he were an insurance salesman, or leader of a different department, media interest would be different.

“Would this make news? No, it wouldn’t,” he said.

Balderrama Not Concerned About Potential Eroding Support

The police union, the Fresno Police Officers’ Association, scheduled an emergency executive meeting Wednesday afternoon.

“While the (Dyer administration) statement is true, it omits the most critical component of the investigation, and that is the nature of the relationship itself. The FPOA has confirmed information beyond what has been released in (the city’s) public statement, but not are at liberty to divulge that information at this time,” FPOA President Brandon Wiemiller wrote to his membership last week.

Balderrama said he is not concerned about losing support of the rank and file.

“I don’t worry. I’m a police chief. I get bad news all day long, all night long about terrible things that are happening … whether I’m the police chief here or not the police chief here, in the big scheme of things that is going on in the city, it’s not that big of a deal. It’s not that big of a deal,” Balderrama said.

Since his hire in January 2021, Balderrama said the union has only filed two grievances against him, both of which were withdrawn.

“I actually work very well with the union. Now, are there people out there who would love to see me go and fail? Yeah, there’s people out there all over the community who would love to see me fail, but that’s not going to happen,” Balderrama said.

Chief Says He Has Community Support

Balderrama said he still has community support.

“I want to say thank you to the community and my police officers, because I have received hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of messages, send me Bible verses saying that they’re praying for me and my family is asking me, please don’t quit,” Balderrama said.

He displayed prayer beads, given to him by one of his officers.

“I’m going to get through this, and my family’s going to get through this because God is great and I’m a professional and I’m going to keep on working at it,” Balderrama said.

Dyer declined comment about the investigation.

Last week, City Attorney Andrew Janz said his office is conducting the investigation, led by an outside investigator. Janz on Wednesday did not have an updated timetable of when the investigation will be complete.

The city council also held a special closed session meeting Wednesday morning to officially discuss the vaguely-worded “potential litigation.” Sources told GV Wire the discussion included an update about the city’s investigation. After the 30-plus minute meeting, the city council reported no action.

Related Story: Fresno Police Union: Members Feel Betrayed, Trust Lost in Chief Balderrama

The post Balderrama: ‘I Plan on Leading This Police Department to Even Greater Heights’ appeared first on GV Wire.

Balderrama, 47, is being investigated by the City Attorney’s Office at the behest of Mayor Jerry Dyer’s administration for an alleged off-duty relationship. According to a published report, the alleged affair lasted more than two years and was with the spouse of a Fresno police officer.

City Hall’s announcement last week revealing the investigation of Balderrama, however, referred to the alleged affair as “an inappropriate off-duty relationship he was involved in with a non-city employee.”

Balderrama, who continues as chief amid the investigation, is said to be losing the trust of some police officers. Fresno Police Officers Association President Brandon Wiemiller made that clear in an email to members announcing that the union’s leadership team would meet Wednesday night to talk about the situation.

Related Story: Fresno Police Union: Members Feel Betrayed, Trust Lost in Chief Balderrama

Chief’s Bid to Win Back Police Officers’ Trust

The police chief’s Monday email included sentiments aimed at winning back that trust.

“It is so very true that there are two sides to every story, but I do not intend to justify or defend myself regardless of any unknown circumstances,” Balderrama wrote in Monday’s email. “My actions did not meet the standards of who I am as a man of faith, husband, or father. I own my mistakes, they are mine and mine alone to bear, and I will pay for those mistakes for the rest of my life.

“I humbly come to you and ask for your forgiveness as your leader, who clearly has flaws and imperfections. I realize many of you may be upset and disappointed. I understand those feelings and I don’t fault you for it.”

Balderrama closed the email by writing: “I am deeply sorry for letting you down, and all I can do is ask for your forgiveness.”

The police chief is married and has three children.

He stated in the email, “My family has been deeply affected by this and I humbly ask for your grace, discretion, and understanding during this difficult time. ”

Related Story: Embattled Fresno Police Chief Cherry Picks Scripture on Social Media

Balderrama’s Email to Fresno Police Officers

FPOA President’s Email to Police Officers

The post ‘All I Can Do Is Ask for Your Forgiveness,’ Fresno’s Top Cop Says in Email to Officers appeared first on GV Wire.

FPOA President Brandon Wiemiller made the comment in an email sent to members, a copy of which was obtained by GV Wire. FPOA has scheduled an emergency meeting of its governing board for Wednesday, the email stated.

“The meeting will be held under Executive Session, and therefore will not be open to the general members themselves,” Wiemiller wrote. “I strongly encourage any members who wish to voice their sentiments to attend our regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors for June 19th. It is important for the Board to hear the voice of its membership. Your voice, opinion and feelings matter greatly.”

Related Story: Embattled Fresno Police Chief Cherry Picks Scripture on Social Media

Last Thursday, Mayor Jerry Dyer issued a news release stating that Balderrama was under City Hall investigation for an alleged “inappropriate off-duty relationship he was involved in with a non-city employee” but would remain on the job. Neither Dyer nor Balderrama has shed further light on the allegation or the investigation.

Wiemiller stated in the email to FPOA members: “While the statement is true, it omits the most critical component of the investigation, and that is the nature of the relationship itself. The FPOA has confirmed information beyond what has been released in (the city’s) public statement, but not are at liberty to divulge that information at this time.

“There also has been a prevalent narrative surrounding this situation that no policy violations (by Balderrama) have been established. This is an incredible offense to every member of the agency, who is held to account for policy violations surrounding ‘discretion’ and ‘conduct unbecoming’ every day, both on and off duty.”

Related Story: Fresno Police Chief Under Investigation. Remains on Job.

Report: Balderrama Had Two-Year Affair With Police Officer’s Spouse

KMJ radio talk show host Ray Appleton and the San Joaquin Valley Sun have reported that Balderrama had an affair with the wife of a Fresno police officer.

“Balderrama, multiple law enforcement sources confirmed to The Sun, is under investigation for engaging in a two-plus-year extramarital affair with the spouse of one of his own officers and leveraged his position to undermine the officer’s career moves that would have brought an end to the affair,” The Sun reported.

Balderrama and Dyer started their respective jobs in January 2021. Although Dyer did not hire Balderrama — the administration of previous Mayor Lee Brand did months earlier —Dyer has continuously supported his chief in public. Dyer retired as police chief in 2019, with Andy Hall serving in the interim.

Sources with knowledge about the potential options for the Dyer administration in handling the police chief’s situation say any decision will be complicated by the fact City Hall has for years  ignored extra-marital affairs involving high-ranking department officials and their subordinates as well as city employees in other departments.

In addition, Balderrama’s strong performance as chief — reducing violent crime, recruiting new young officers since coming from Oklahoma City — has garnered accolades from Dyer and city councilmembers.

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