Newnan police chief placed on administrative leave

NEWNAN - Newnan police Chief Ronnie Williams was placed on administrative leave with pay Tuesday during a regular City Council meeting. <br> <br> City officials would not say why Williams was put on leave. But the action follows a federal lawsuit filed by a group of women who worked for him. <br> <br> The lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court accuses Williams of sexual harassment, gender-based discrimination and violation of civil rights. <br> <br> All five women previously worked or still work in the police department. <br> <br> The Coweta County district attorney&#39;s office also is investigating a sexual assault complaint against the chief. The Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council has been investigating Williams since August. <br> <br> Officials of both agencies have declined to comment. <br> <br> Acting City Manager John Coffey said Capt. Douglas ``Buster&#39;&#39; Meadows will serve as police chief ``until Mr. Williams&#39; administrative leave is ended or other action is taken.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> Mayor Keith Brady said the matter won&#39;t likely come up again until the new city manager, W. Danny Lewis, takes over Jan. 16.