ThisWeek CW 06/19/2014

http://www.thisweeknews.com/content/stories/canalwinchester/news/2014/06/16/madison-township-police-chief-on-leave-two-named-to-interim-positions.html

Madison Township trustees held an emergency meeting last week to name an interim police chief and captain.

The June 10 meeting was scheduled after police Chief Michael Ratliff asked for a medical leave of absence. Township officials would not comment on his condition, only stating they hope to have him return to work by the end of July, and want to honor the family’s request for privacy.

Trustees voted unanimously to name Capt. Ken Braden to be interim chief of police and Sgt. Donald Skinner to be interim captain.

There will be no change in pay during what is anticipated to be a brief reassignment.

Trustee Gary McDonald said this is a temporary situation.

“Our department and community are fortunate to have such a knowledgeable, dedicated and caring individual,” McDonald said. “This was done in order to continue with a progressive and positive command posture and structure within the police department for our community.”

According to trustee Victor Paini, no other plans have been made for further interim position adjustments.

“We believe that our daytime coverage, which is primarily where this shift has an impact, should remain in good shape during his leave of absence,” Paini said.

Ratliff has been with the department for 34 years and has served as chief since last July when he replaced former chief Greg Ryan on an interim basis.

He was hired to fill the job permanently last August.

Also at that time, Braden — who was then a sergeant — replaced Capt. James Glasure on an interim basis, before ultimately being promoted to the rank of captain.