Greenfield PD chief denies 'workplace concern' allegations

GREENFIELD, Wis. (CBS 58) -- On Thursday, May 8, we heard from the Greenfield police chief for the first time since he was placed on leave. The paid leave went into effect nearly two weeks ago. 

City officials say they're investigating concerns in the workplace connected to Jay Johnson. 

Thursday, Johnson said he was placed on leave for using a squad car at his residence, berating a union employee, and creating a hostile work environment -- all of which he denies. 

Johnson also says he was offered one year of salary as part of his leave. 

"I recognize this was an attempt to force me into retirement, as these three points were absurd and without merit," said Johnson. "The amount of stress that resonated through my body at this point is indescribable."

Johnson says he has submitted a complaint to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. 

Greenfield Mayor Michael Neitzke released the following statement Thursday:

“On April 25, Chief Johnson was placed on administrative leave after the City received significant allegations concerning his conduct. Consistent with established City protocols, we retained an independent firm to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, which remains ongoing. Paid administrative leave is not a finding of wrongdoing; it simply allows for a fair review of the facts.

While Chief Johnson spoke about the ongoing investigation at a news conference today, for the protection of his due process, we have and will continue to keep details of the investigation confidential and will not comment on any public claims from Chief Johnson other than to say there were significant inaccuracies in his statements.

We have not yet received a complaint, so were surprised to learn that Chief Johnson filed a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. We take our obligations to uphold the law seriously. The City of Greenfield respects the rights of all employees to seek recourse through appropriate legal channels, and we take such matters seriously. As this is an ongoing personnel and legal matter, we are limited in what we can share publicly at this time.

The City of Greenfield remains committed to a workplace culture of respect, transparency, and due process. We will continue to uphold these values as this matter proceeds, and we ask for the public’s patience and understanding.

Our focus remains on ensuring that the Greenfield Police Department continues to serve our community with professionalism and integrity."