Pasadena Police Officer, Subject of Federal Investigation, Placed on Leave

A Pasadena police officer has been placed on paid administrative leave after federal agents from Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) executed a search warrant at the officer’s home Thursday morning as part of an investigation unrelated to the officer’s on-the-clock duties, according to a City spokesperson.

Pasadena Public Information Officer William Boyer said that the unidentified officer cooperated with ATF agents during their search of the home. Boyer said the officer has not been arrested, nor are there any charges that have been filed to initiate an arrest.

The ATF investigation is ongoing at this time.

In keeping with Pasadena Police Department policy, Chief Sanchez placed the officer on paid administrative leave and has initiated an Internal Affairs review, Boyer said.

The officer’s status is paid administrative leave subject to the outcome and review of the Internal Affairs findings and the results of the ATF investigation.

Pasadena City Manager Steve Mermell and Chief Sanchez emphasized tonight that they take the matter with the utmost seriousness. The City and its representatives will continue to cooperate fully with the ATF investigators on this case.

“Chief Sanchez has asked me to share that he, along with the men and women of the Pasadena Police Department, continue to be proud members of the department and this will not deter them from their important commitment of public safety and to ensure the well-being of our residents, visitors and others who work in Pasadena,” Boyer said.