“He is out of the office for an undermined period of time,” Welsh told The Leader. When asked if the person on leave was Simonson, she said she could not confirm it.

The Leader also contacted Lemoore Chief of Police Darrell Smith who declined to talk about the issue, referring any questions to the Lemoore city manager’s office.

Lemoore council members are also somewhat in the dark. Lemoore member Eddie Neal said he heard from sources within the city that Simonson was placed on leave. Neal expressed faith in the city manager’s office to take care of the matter.

“I have great confidence in our city manager,” said Neal. “She’s looking at what’s best for our city.”