Broussard Police Chief Brannon Decou has decided to take voluntary leave as he is being investigated for sexual harassment. He will remain on leave until the current investigation is completed.

Decou's decision is reportedly based on advice from the City's legal counsel based on best practices. Taking leave now, according to the legal experts, protects the integrity of an ongoing investigation.

While no comments can be made during the investigation or its findings until it is completed, Broussard Mayor Ray Bourque and the Broussard City Council released the following statement:

While we have no authority over the Chief because he is an elected official, we agree with the City’s legal counsel that best practice dictates that he take leave to protect the integrity of the investigation. Above all, it is our duty to protect the employees, the people, and the reputation of our great city and to allow due process. We take seriously our responsibility and the trust placed in us by the people to lead, especially during challenging times. We are proud of the dedication of our police force and want our residents and businesses to be assured that their safety and security remain the top priorities of these professional men and women.

You may recall that Chief Decou has been accused of sexual harassment by a former officer. That former officer says those acts of harassment include shirtless Snapchats from the chief, messages requesting "scandalous photos," and other messages laden with sexual innuendo.

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