TERRE HAUTE — Terre Haute Mayor Kevin Burke was within his right to appoint Police Chief George Ralston to his position, an appeals court ruled late last week.
The Indiana Court of Appeals issued a ruling dated Aug. 31 in Terre Haute’s favor in a case challenging Burke’s appointment of Ralston. The International Union of Police Associations Local 133, which represents Terre Haute police officers, had challenged the appointment since Ralston was not on the Police Department before Burke appointed him.
The court ruled that state law does not require a police chief to be a member at the time he is appointed.
“It’s always been clear for [first- and second-class] cities … that the chief does not have to come from the department if he meets all the other qualifications,” said Bill Drummy, an attorney who represented the City of Terre Haute in the litigation.
Drummy’s office submitted a copy of the decision to the Tribune-Star.
The case initially had gone before Vigo County Judge David Bolk, who first ruled in the city’s favor, Drummy said. The union then filed an appeal, he added.
Attorney Eric Frey, who represented the police union, could not immediately be reached for comment. Local 133 president Jim Schneider said he was unaware of a decision in the case, and needed to speak with the attorney before he could comment.
Austin Arceo can be reached at (812) 231-4214 or austin.arceo@tribstar.com.
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Appeals court upholds Burke’s appointment of Ralston as chief
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