An internal investigation was launched after Warren city police officials received two written complaints from citizens accusing Lt. Joe Marhulik of using racial slurs.
The complaints say that on August 16 around 11:30 in the evening Marhulik drove up to the men in his unmarked police car. The one man said Marhulik referred to him with a racial slur and then asked if he was selling crack.
The other man said Marhulik referred to him with racial slurs and asked if he had crack. One of the men said he thought Marhulik may have been drinking. Marhulik was not on duty at the time.
City officials say Marhulik has a good record and has trained officers on diversity issues.
"That is the most disturbing part of this complaint," Safety-Service Director Doug Franklin said. "He has had a good rapport in the community. I want to assure the public that we take these matters very seriously and we will have a complete investigation," Franklin said.
Officials would not say how long they expect Marhulik to be on the paid leave. They are hoping to have the internal investigation completed as soon as possible.
