Ongoing probe into Ocala chief comes at big cost for taxpayers

An ongoing probe into Ocala’s police chief has hit the six-figure mark in what it’s costing taxpayers—and it’s far from over.

The city is paying for its own attorney, an additional set of labor attorneys and the suspended chief's attorney.

Chief Greg Graham was suspended with pay in September after at least three officers accused him of misconduct, sexual harassment and discrimination.

Ocala Mayor Kent Guinn said the investigation would be wrapped up by Oct. 20.

Channel 9’s Angela Jacobs was told no one with the city could talk about why the investigation is still going on and how much longer it’s expected to run.

One of the grievances against the chief is costing taxpayers nearly $100,000.

Guinn showed support for Graham in September when he said, “I stand behind Greg Graham. We’re going to do this investigation and move on from there.”

In October, he also supported Graham’s reappointment while still under investigation, pending its outcome.

The expenses do not include the labor attorneys’ charges for November, so when the numbers are submitted, the cost to taxpayers will increase.

Cox Media Group