Forest Park’s police chief is off the street and on the sidelines as city officials dig into allegations that he took days off while still banking paid time off, a move that has thrust the department’s leadership under an uncomfortable spotlight.
Police Chief Brandon Criss was placed on paid administrative leave last week while the city investigates, according to Mayor Gwen Ellison. She told reporters she could not share specifics because the probe is active, but stressed that public-safety operations and patrol coverage have not been disrupted. Criss has led the department since his April 2023 appointment and has been a front-line presence in several high-profile responses across the city. City leaders have not released any timeline for when the inquiry will wrap.
Investigation And Mayor's Response
Sources told WSB1 that the investigation centers on whether Criss “stole city time” by taking days off while continuing to bank PTO. According to the station, its reporter first went to Criss’s home, then to City Hall to question Mayor Ellison, who confirmed the chief had been placed on leave “last week” and repeated that she could not discuss details of an open personnel matter. City officials, the outlet reported, emphasized that patrols and day-to-day services have continued without interruption during the chief’s leave.
Chief's Background And Role
Criss was appointed chief in April 2023, according to the Forest Park city website, after nearly two decades in local law enforcement and a stint with the Clayton County Sheriff’s Office. The city’s page lists responsibilities that included overseeing investigations and modernizing department operations. Regional coverage has also shown Criss leading responses to major incidents, including a deadly 2025 shooting in Forest Park, according to AP News.
Possible Legal Consequences
When investigators look into whether a public official recorded or received pay for time not worked, they typically consider administrative discipline and, depending on the evidence, potential criminal exposure under state law. Georgia’s theft statute, Georgia Code, defines “theft by taking,” and state personnel provisions explain that public employees are not immune from criminal or civil liability for conversion or misappropriation of funds (FindLaw cites O.C.G.A. A7 45-7-56). Prosecutors would decide whether to pursue charges after payroll records and other evidence are reviewed.
What Happens Next
The city has not given a schedule for finishing the probe and has said it will update the public when it can. WSB1 reported its reporter tried to reach Criss at his home, while city leaders said they intend to follow personnel and legal procedures as the inquiry plays out. For now, Mayor Ellison has told residents to expect normal patrol coverage and said the department’s day-to-day work has continued despite the chief’s paid administrative leave.
