After unanimous vote, commissioners declined further comment for legal reasons
By Kathleen Brady Shea, Managing Editor, The Times
The Caln Township Board of Commissioners said it has begun the process to select a new police chief after voting to terminate Brian R. Byerly.
At a brief special meeting tonight, the Caln Township Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to terminate four-year Police Chief Brian R. Byerly, a 26-year member of the force who had been on paid administrative leave for the past week.
Commissioner Joshua Young recused himself from the vote, explaining that he could potentially be called as “a fact witness” if the decision is challenged. He said he would have “no further comment.”
Board President Vincent Rose said the commissioners met in executive session before the public meeting and discussed the serious allegations of misconduct, which he called “unacceptable for any township employee, let alone the head of our police department.” Rose said he could not discuss specifics because Byerly has the right to a hearing if he so chooses. “The board respects the process,” he said.
Rose said the board has already begun the process to find someone to lead “the finest department in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.” In the meantime, he said the department will be seamlessly supervised by Lt. Jeff Nash, who has been serving as acting chief.
The decision to terminate Byerly, a graduate of the FBI Academy, troubled one township resident.
“Why can’t he be continued on administrative leave?” asked Bob Reymos, citing Byerly’s longevity.
Township solicitor Kristin Camp responded that the board did not choose that option.
“I think it’s a mistake,” Reymos added.
Byerly did not return an email seeking comment about his ouster.
