Dexter police chief placed on leave

DEXTER, Mo. -- Dexter's chief of police remains on paid administrative leave as city officials look into "personnel matters."

Sammy Stone, who has been in the police department for more than 33 years, including the last seven as its chief of police, was placed on administrative leave earlier this month, according to Dexter city administrator Mark Stidham.

"The Board (of Alderman) and us put him on administrative leave," Stidham said. "At this time, it's just personnel matters. We're just looking into personnel matters."

Stidham said he couldn't discuss anything more specific as it involves personnel.

"There was just some personnel issues brought to our attention," said Stidham, who indicated he has "no idea" how long Stone will be on leave.

"I'm sure it won't be long, but I don't know that," he said.

The board of aldermen's next regular meeting is scheduled for April 5, Stidham said.

"I don't foresee" an earlier meeting, but there "could be a called meeting," which would be posted if the board decides to "call (a meeting) to discuss personnel issues," Stidham said.

The department's assistant chief of police, Larry Patterson, is serving as the interim police chief, Stidham said.

Pertinent address:

Dexter, Mo.