Norristown police chief placed on leave without explanation

NORRISTOWN, Pa. — Norristown Police Chief Jacqueline Bailey-Davis has been placed on leave, township officials said Monday in a cryptic announcement that gave no reason for the decision.

“This decision was made after careful consideration and is not taken lightly,” City Manager Leonard Lightner said in a statement. “The City Council recognizes the complexities and challenges inherent in public service leadership and remains committed to ensuring transparency and accountability while respecting the confidentiality of personnel matters.”

It’s not clear how long the leave will last or whether officials expect Bailey-Davis to return to her post. They also did not specify the nature of the leave, although the language used by officials made it clear that the decision was made by the community and not Bailey-Davis.

It’s the recent uncertainty and apparent instability surrounding the police department, which has seen several different chiefs and acting chiefs take the helm in recent years.

Bailey-Davis, the first woman appointed police chief in Norristown history, assumed the post on Jan. 2 of this year. She is a former Philadelphia police inspector and has a doctorate in public administration.

“The council and community leadership are focused on maintaining stability within the police department and supporting its ongoing efforts to effectively serve the residents of Norristown,” Lightner added.

The department has approximately 60 sworn officers and 30 civilian employees.