Cheney sergeant under investigation, on administrative leave since June 2021

CHENEY – Sergeant Chad Eastep has been on administrative leave from the Cheney police department, as the result of an investigation, since June 2021.

City administrator Mark Schuller confirmed this, saying "Yes, he is on administrative leave because he is under investigation."

When asked if the city made any personnel changes to cover sergeant Eastep's absence, Schuller replied "We've made some organizational changes at the police department to ensure proper supervision of patrol officers. We've made some internal promotions."

Though the Cheney Free Press was unable at time of printing to procure a precise figure, Schuller confirmed that Eastep has been receiving his regular salary since June 2021.

John Hensley, the chief of police during that time said "This sergeant should have been terminated in October of 2021 when the investigation was completed."

Hensley continued "Moreover, the City has paid over $120,000 in overtime to back-fill for this sergeant, while denying the former Chief a detective that is and was sorely needed."

The Cheney Free Press has made inquiries to the city about this investigation and about Eastep's salary while on administrative leave, but at time of printing these inquiries were still being processed.

Author Bio

Lucas Walsh, Former managing editor

Lucas is a former Cheney Free Press managing editor. He is a nationally published author who contributes regularly to several publications across the country.