Westminster Police Chief Fired for Sexual Harassment and Retaliation

 

Westminster Police Chief Fired for Sexual Harassment and Retaliation

 

WESTMINSTER — Westminster Police Chief Ralph LeBlanc has been fired after an independent investigation concluded he created a hostile work environment through acts of sexual harassment and retaliation against employees.

 

The city announced LeBlanc’s termination Friday morning following a closed-door City Council meeting. According to city officials, the decision was made after reviewing the findings of an outside law firm hired to investigate multiple complaints made by department staff earlier this year.

 

“The investigation revealed serious misconduct that is unacceptable for anyone, especially the leader of our police department,” said Westminster City Manager Laura Hernandez. “Our employees deserve a safe and respectful workplace. After reviewing the full scope of the investigation’s findings, we determined that immediate action was necessary.”

 

Sources familiar with the investigation said several current and former employees accused LeBlanc of making inappropriate comments of a sexual nature, unwanted physical contact, and fostering an atmosphere where retaliation against those who complained was common. Some employees alleged they were passed over for promotions or reassigned after raising concerns about LeBlanc’s behavior.

 

The investigation, conducted by the law firm Morrison & Fielding LLP, included interviews with more than two dozen witnesses and a review of internal emails and text messages. The final report, which has not yet been made public, reportedly substantiates many of the allegations and describes a “pattern of misconduct.”

 

In a written statement, LeBlanc denied the allegations, saying he was “deeply disappointed” by the city’s decision. “Throughout my career, I have served Westminster with integrity and dedication,” LeBlanc wrote. “I categorically deny engaging in any behavior that would create a hostile environment. I look forward to clearing my name through the appropriate legal channels.”

 

However, city officials stood by their decision, stating that the evidence was overwhelming. “We must hold our leadership to the highest standards,” said Mayor Christine Nguyen. “This community deserves a police department where officers and staff feel supported, respected, and safe. Today’s action is a step toward rebuilding that trust.”

 

LeBlanc had served as Westminster’s police chief since 2018 and spent over 25 years with the department. His tenure included initiatives aimed at improving community policing and reducing crime, but recent years were marked by internal unrest and high staff turnover.

 

Deputy Chief Ana Morales has been appointed as interim police chief while the city conducts a nationwide search for a permanent replacement. Morales, a 22-year veteran of the department, promised swift action to address the concerns raised during the investigation.

 

“My immediate priority is to ensure that every member of this department feels heard, valued, and safe,” Morales said during a brief press conference Friday afternoon. “We will work hard to rebuild trust internally and with the community we serve.”

 

The firing of Chief LeBlanc marks a major leadership shakeup for the Westminster Police Department, which city officials say will be followed by broader cultural reforms. An internal task force is being formed to review department policies, with a particular focus on workplace conduct, leadership accountability, and employee grievance procedures.

 

City Manager Hernandez said the city will also offer counseling and additional resources to department employees affected by the hostile work environment.

 

“We are committed to real change,” Hernandez said. “This is only the beginning.”

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