Gloucester police chief put on paid leave during investigation

GLOUCESTER, Mass. — Gloucester Police Chief Leonard Campanello has been placed on paid leave by the city.

According to a statement from Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken, Campanello’s leave is related to an internal investigation.

Campanello has received national attention for creating a drug treatment program which has spread across the country. The Angel Program links addicts with volunteers who help them get treatment without facing criminal charges.

Campianello also stepped aside from his role at the Police Assisted Addiction and Recovery Initiative (PAARI). PAARI is the nonprofit that helps fund the Angel Program.

>> READ FULL STATEMENT FROM PAARI CO-FOUNDER/CHAIRMAN

Campanello's attorney released a statement to FOX25, saying Campanello's suspension had nothing to do with his duties as chief of police.

"We are confident that when all the facts are fairly and impartially reviewed, Chief Campanello will be quickly and expeditiously returned to his position," the statement continued.

"I have absolutely no concerns in my personal or professional life that I've done anything wrong to warrant any action against me...If the city feels they have to take some kind of process with this, go at it."

A sign on the chief's door Thursday said there was no comment.

In an interview with the Gloucester Times, Campanello said he has nothing to hide.

"I have absolutely no concerns in my personal or professional life that I've done anything wrong to warrant any action against me," Campanello told the paper.

Campanello had asked to take two weeks of personal leave earlier this month in order to manage the Angel program and separate the organization from the police department.

This is a developing story, stick with FOX25Boston.com for the latest updates.

Cox Media Group