Alfred Police Chief on administrative leave, mayor says 'everything in good hands.'

Alfred Police Chief Paul Griffith was placed on paid administrative leave last month by the village board.

Griffith has been the Alfred chief of police since 2014 and has worked in the department for nearly three decades.

Through an attorney, Griffith expressed bewilderment at being placed on leave.

Village officials have not detailed the reason for the move, which comes as Alfred State College and Alfred University students pile into the Allegany County community for the fall semester.

Because it is a personnel matter, confidentiality limits what the village can or should say, according to Mayor James Ninos.

"That’s not only to protect the village and all that live within the village, but it’s also to protect Paul," Ninos said. "It is a personnel issue, and we take it seriously and we take it sensitively.”

Ninos said the matter is now being handled by the village attorney and the attorney for Griffith.

“It is a paid administrative leave, so he is still an employee of the Village of Alfred. He has not been dismissed at this point,” Ninos said.

Griffith's attorney Maureen Bass, a partner with Rochester-based Abrams Fensterman, LLP., said the police chief is puzzled by the village's action. She said Griffith was informed by a letter without an explanation.

“Through thick and thin, Chief Griffith has served for 27 years. He loves his Department and is proud of all of those who serve with him," Bass said. "He does not know or understand why this is happening to him, but he has done nothing wrong and has always served with honesty, integrity, dignity and respect." Bass said Griffith and his family are "very grateful for the community’s support, especially during this difficult time."

Bass said Griffith "hopes to return to his post soon and continue to keep the community strong and safe.”

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Alfred Mayor: 'Everything covered' from public safety standpoint

Ninos said public safety will not be compromised because the police chief is absent.

“We have everything covered. We have great people. Joshua VanSkiver is the sergeant that has stepped up," Ninos said. "We had some issues over the weekend with student safety in the village and everything was handled beautiful.

"I would say everything is in good hands.”

Ninos added that the Allegany County Sheriff's Office is available if extra help is needed.

This article originally appeared on The Evening Tribune: Village of Alfred puts police chief Griffith on administrative leave