§ 54-37. Disciplinary action.

(a)

The sheriff may take the disciplinary action, including the demotion, suspension or dismissal of an employee who has achieved permanent status under this article, for any cause which, in the sheriff's opinion, will promote the efficiency of the office of sheriff. Prior to such action, the employee shall be furnished written notice of the proposed action and offered an opportunity to respond to the reasons for such disciplinary action. However, in extraordinary situations, such as when delay could adversely impact the public safety or welfare or unduly interfere with the efficient operation of the office of sheriff or otherwise result in damage or injury, an employee covered by this article may be immediately suspended or dismissed. In such a situation, the employee shall be provided notice of the reasons for the disciplinary action within five days after the disciplinary action occurs.

(b)

For the purpose of this article, cause for disciplinary actions shall include, but not be limited to, the following: untruthfulness; insubordination; negligence; inefficiency; inability to perform assigned duties; incompetence; violation of the provisions of law, including arrest; criminal charges by indictment or information; violation of office rules, regulations, policy or procedures; conduct unbecoming a public employee; misconduct; alcohol or drug abuse; adjudication of guilt by a court, a plea of guilty or nolo contendere or a court verdict of guilty when an adjudication of guilt is withheld and the accused is placed on probation with respect to any felony, misdemeanor or serious traffic infraction; and suspension, removal or revocation of an employee's certification.

(c)

Nothing in this section shall prohibit the sheriff or his designee from placing any employee on special duty or administrative leave, with or without pay, pending the outcome of administrative proceedings such as an internal affairs investigation, career service hearing or other official proceedings.

(Code 1970, § 15½-23; Ord. No. 90-12, § 3, 9-25-90; Ord. No. 11-17, § 2, 12-6-11)