LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The Louisville Metro Police chief has resigned after two sexual harassment lawsuits were filed against the department. 

At a news conference on Tuesday, Mayor Craig Greenberg said Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel resigned after being put on administrative leave over her handling of sexual harassment allegations from a high-ranking officer. 

"Over the past few weeks, we've learned about a series of sexual harassment allegations within the department itself," Greenberg said. "Some new details emerged over the last few days that were deeply troubling and disappointing. It's unacceptable and inexcusable. Everyone should be treated with respect."

Gwinn-Villaroel will receive four months of pay in pursuant to her contract and to assist with her transition, according to Greenberg.

Greenberg said acting chief Col. Paul Humphrey will act as the interim chief until a permanent chief is named. 

"He understands what is needed for this department to move forward is to continue making improvements," Greenberg said. "I value his perspective, experience and respect he's earned from his colleagues."

Humphrey is the sixth person in four years to lead LMPD. Humphrey joined the department in 2006 and spent several years as an officer in the city's 1st and 6th divisions in the Newburg and Russell neighborhoods. In 2010, he joined the SWAT team and became its commander in 2017.

"It is a great honor to serve in the role of interim chief, and I appreciate the mayor’s confidence in me to continue moving the department forward," Humphrey said. "Despite the change in leadership, our goal remains the same. I am proud to work with all LMPD officers and employees who are committed to continuing to protect and serve the citizens of Louisville."

LMPD sexual harassment policy

LMPD's sexual harassment policy is now being rewritten to better align with the policies of Louisville Metro Government, according to Greenberg. The department said policies have been updated to clarify that officers found to have violated sexual harassment policies will be disciplined accordingly, including potential termination.

Officers can now report sexual harassment through Metro Government's ethics tip line or Department of Human Resources. The ethics tip line number is (888) 226-2264.

She was suspended two weeks ago for her handling of sexual harassment complaints.

Mandatory training

Greenberg said after the sexual harassment allegations earlier this month, members of the LMPD command staff have been trained in prevention and response. Going forward, the mayor said all officers and staff would be trained on policy, definitions and ways to report sexual harassment. 

"Additionally, a variety of support systems are available for employee wellness, including through our Summit Wellness Center," Humphrey said. "We are committed to accountability and fostering a safe work environment that is welcoming, where all employees feel comfortable and secure."

LMPD support systems 

The mayor and interim chief also announced new support for officers who report sexual harassment, including measures to prevent retaliation. 

“Let me be abundantly clear, LMPD will not tolerate sexual harassment," said Humphrey. "We are implementing significant policy updates. We have begun enhanced training and are revising and improving our reporting and handing processes."

Greenberg said more announcements would be made soon about what he said would be "major improvements and transformative reforms" at LMPD. 

This is a developing story that will be updated. 

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