November 17, 2008

Corpus Christi Police Chief Bryan Smith remains on administrative leave pending the outcome of an investigation into his actions on the job.

At issue, some disparaging comments. He's accused of making, apparently caught on tape involving police staffers and city council members. It is the latest drama enveloping both city hall and the police department.

As you can imagine this latest scandal involving the police chief has been the talk among the rank and file at the police department.

At police headquarters, some officers Monday told us they believe this is a ever changing investigation, and are suspicious there might be more being investigation by the city manager than just one accidental recording.

The chief might be on leave, but his absence is fueling lots of speculation. rumors are swirling about police chief Bryan smith's future.

Corpus Christi Police Officer's Association President Mike Staff said he'd prefer to refrain from fueling rumors.

"It's a small department. It's 400-450 officers so everyone knows everyone, but to say it's polarized, it's possible," said Staff. "The rumors are out there right now and we just need to let the rumors stop and let's get the facts."

On his first day on administrative leave, 3 News learned Chief Smith has been hit with a personal lawsuit by one of his commanders.

David Torres has a pending whistle blower lawsuit against the city. This new civil suit names smith as the defendant. Claiming the chief used the internal affairs division as his quote "personal rogue detective agency" in an attempt to falsely accuse Torres of criminal conduct.

So far Chief Smith has refrained from any public comments regarding the current investigation by the city manager, or about Torres' lawsuit.