STEAMBOAT SPRINGS — Police Chief Joel Rae and Deputy Chief Bob DelValle have been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation into allegations by former Detective Dave Kleiber that his bosses created “a hostile work environment” with “heavy-handed policing.”
Steamboat Springs city manager Deb Hinsvark said it was a joint decision between herself, Rae and DelValle. “We all agreed that this was the best way to move forward at this time,” Hinsvark said.
“Chief Rae and Chief DelValle and I have agreed that it would be better to give this investigation a clear and unimpeded path,” Hinsvark wrote in an e-mail. “As a result, they have been placed on administrative leave for the term of the investigation.”
Rae and DelValle did not respond to e-mails Saturday.
Seven former City Council presidents and president pro tems, a Routt County commissioner and the Routt County sheriff signed a letter calling on the city to place Rae and DelValle on administrative leave while an investigation into the allegations is underway, Steamboat Today reported.
The city has hired retired Littleton Police Chief Heather Coogan to conduct the investigation into the allegations, which is expected to start Monday and take two to three months.
Hinsvark’s decision drew criticism, and “Fire Hinsvark” signs were posted at bus stops and the post office.
