By Adam Studzinski
HEYWORTH – Residents packed the Heyworth Hall Tuesday night to express their support for Police Chief Chris Lane, but the Village Board decided to uphold the decision made last week to relieve Lane of his duties.
Mayor Todd Zalucha explained Lane was fired “due to his performance not meeting expectations.”
“Mr. Lane provided false information to our liability insurance carrier,” said Zalucha. “Each department head was responsible to answer his or her question of the questionnaire. The police section contained false information.”
Zalucha added Lane also made false statements to the press, but said he could not go into further details.
Lane was present for Tuesday’s meeting.
“I’m just disappointed in their decision,” Lane said.
Zalucha said Lane was given multiple opportunities to resign following a meeting on Feb. 5.
Almost 500 residents had filled out an online petition supporting Lane’s reinstatement.
Adam Studzinski can be reached at adam.studzinski@cumulus.com.
