By Kimberly Gasuras
CCN Reporter
CRESTLINE― A police dispatcher was terminated from her job at the Crestline Police Department on Monday and an investigation continues that involves both the dispatcher and Police Chief Joseph Butler.
According to Village Administrator John Rostash, the employment of Police Dispatcher Debra Potter was terminated.
“The matter has been referred to the Crawford County Prosecutor for further investigation. There will be no other comment from the Village of Crestline at this time,” said Rostash in a press release.
Crawford County Prosecutor Matthew Crall also sent a press release on Monday announcing that his office will be handling the investigation of any criminal activity that may have occurred within the Crestline Police Department.
“As it would be inappropriate for the Crestline Police Department to investigate its chief, my office will be opening a complete investigation in the situation which has resulted in the administrative leave of Chief Joseph Butler and the termination of Dispatcher Potter,” said Crall. “The village administration requested the Prosecutor’s Office investigate this matter.”
Crall said that his office has contracted with former Bucyrus Police Captain John Beal to investigate whether any violations of law have occurred. Ohio Auditor of State Dave Yost has also agreed to investigate any improper use of government funds in the Crestline Police Department.
“All residents of the Village of Crestline deserve to know if any criminal wrongdoing has occurred within their police department. Those tasked with enforcing the law are entrusted to comply with its provision. A proper investigation is the only means for residents to have faith in their department,” Crall said. “Alternatively, if no crimes were committed, a failure to investigate does not clear those who have not broken the law.”
Butler has been on paid administrative leave since Aug. 31. The village council recently appointed Jeff Shook as the interim police chief.