Marshfield Officials Considering Voluntary Separation Agreement With Police Chief

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021 -- 11:01 AM

(WDLB) Marshfield officials may avoid a series of hearings scheduled to look into the possible termination of the city's embattled police chief.

According to WDLB, following a closed session to consider a disciplinary matter involving Chief Rick Gramza, the Common Council hastily scheduled another special meeting for 7:00 Thursday morning.

According to the agenda, Marshfield Aldermen will consider a possible voluntary separation agreement with the Chief.  The city and its Police & Fire Commission had scheduled eight hearings starting next week to hear evidence both for and against the termination of Gramza.

The hearings are currently scheduled for March 10, 12, 15, 16, 17, 23, 24, and 25.  The hearings were scheduled after the Common Council voted in late December authorizing City Administrator Steve Barg to file formal employment-related charges against the chief.

The hearings will determine whether Gramza violated any city personnel policies; and if he did, the commission would then decide if that should result in some form of disciplinary action, such as suspension or termination.

Gramza is still facing two misdemeanor charges of fourth-degree sexual assault and disorderly conduct in connection with a criminal case in Wood County, involving a female police officer who brought allegations against the chief last year.

Gramza has admitted to a sexual relationship with the employee, but has told investigators the contact was consensual. The Portage County judge hearing Gramza’s case determined Feb. 18 there was not enough evidence to support felony charges of misconduct in public office with use of excessive authority.

Gramza has been on paid administrative leave since mid-August.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.