September 16, 2024
FROM ALFRED VILLAGE MAYOR JIM NINOS: The Village of Alfred’s Board of Trustees respectfully asks the public to consider the following regarding the ongoing investigation concerning Village Police Chief Paul Griffith. As a Board of community members elected by our neighbors, we entered public service because of our deep love for Alfred. We are your friends, family, and coworkers, and we took an oath to uphold the law and act in the best interest of our Whole community.
Currently, our respect for the law and its processes places us in a challenging position. While we value transparency and public feedback, legal obligations limit our ability to comment on certain issues, particularly those involving personnel. Maintaining the integrity of legal processes and protecting the privacy of those involved is essential.
Regarding recent news reports about the Board’s decision not to hire a part-time police candidate, the Board unequivocally denies any allegation, direct or implied, that it engaged in unlawful discrimination during the hiring process. Additionally, Chief Griffith has neither retired nor has the Board terminated his employment. Rather, the Board has placed the Chief on paid administrative leave pending investigation.
We encourage you to direct questions and comments to Mayor Jim Ninos, who will serve as a central point of communication. Please understand that our responses may be limited by legal constraints.
We appreciate your continued support and confidence in our commitment to upholding the law and serving our diverse and wonderful community.
