Statement from Kelly McAdoo, City Manager, City of Hayward Regarding Personnel Investigation

(HAYWARD, CA) – Last Monday, August 29, I placed our Police Chief, Diane Stuart, on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of a personnel investigation.  I want to provide an update on the status of that investigation.

It’s in the best interest of all parties concerned, and especially the taxpayers of Hayward, that the investigation be conducted professionally, fairly, and expeditiously.  We are taking all steps to ensure that happens.  

This is of course a matter of public and media interest, and my office has received numerous requests for interviews and comment.  I’m refraining from discussing matters under investigation because I want the process to have complete integrity and not be compromised by speculation or the release of incomplete information.  I have encouraged my colleagues to similarly avoid such discussion while the investigation continues.  This investigation and the process we are following is normal, deliberate and the procedure we must follow to ensure that the investigation is conducted fairly and impartially.

I also want to stress that the Hayward Police Department is not the subject of the investigation.  I have every confidence in the Department, our officers, and the job they do.  The Acting Chief of Police has my support and the support of City leadership during this interim period.  I am in constant communication with the Police Department command staff and other departmental personnel and the Department continues to provide outstanding service to protect and preserve the safety of this community.  

My office will be releasing additional information as soon as the investigation is complete.