Tacoma Police Deputy Chief Paul Junger placed on administrative leave, sources tell TNT
Deputy Chief Paul Junger with the Tacoma Police Department has been placed on paid administrative leave, multiple sources with knowledge of the matter told The News Tribune on Thursday.
They spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of retaliation.
The news comes nearly a month after TPD Chief Avery Moore was placed on paid administrative leave, The News Tribune previously reported. Junger served as acting chief while Moore was out.
City Manager Elizabeth Pauli said an investigation had been launched into Moore’s personal use of a city asset. He returned to the job the following week after a verbal counseling.
It is unclear what prompted Junger to reportedly be placed on leave.
TPD spokesperson detective William Muse said via email that Moore placed the deputy chief on paid administrative leave Oct. 24, “pending the results of an investigation into an allegation made against” Junger.
“It is the policy of the City of Tacoma to encourage its employees to report any allegations of improper actions by City officers or employees,” he told The News Tribune.
Muse added that the city is limited in what it can disclose about the matter since it’s a personnel issue. Any disciplinary action against Junger as a result of the investigation will be relayed to the public, he said.
Junger, who followed Moore from the Dallas Police Department, has worked as TPD’s deputy chief since May 2022, The News Tribune previously reported. Junger has served in law enforcement and public safety for more than 15 years, according to his LinkedIn profile.
Junger serves under the direction of Moore, according to the city’s website. The deputy chief helps with the “overall direction of the department’s internal operations” and develops, formulates, evaluates and implements goals, objectives and policies, among other duties.
The News Tribune has obtained screenshots of an email that Moore sent to the department Thursday afternoon.
“Team, I wanted you to hear from me that I have placed Paul Junger on administrative leave, effective immediately, pending the outcome of an investigation,” the email reads. “I know this will be difficult news for many.”
Moore stressed the importance of officers supporting one another and coming together to work as a team. He also urged officers to stay focused on the department’s mission and values.
“Our strength lies in our unity,” he continued, “and I am confident that we will navigate this challenge together.”
Editor’s note: This story has been updated with official Police Department confirmation of Junger’s administrative leave.
This story was originally published October 24, 2024 at 2:16 PM.
