Mount Joy Borough Council demoted its police chief to sergeant on Monday, finding he failed to “meet administrative expectations of the position.”
The decision ends six months of limbo for the borough and John O’Connell, who had been on paid administrative leave since July.
Bill Hall, chairman of the public safety committee, called the demotion a “reassignment agreement and release” that was agreed to by the borough and O’Connell in a motion offered to council.
Council voted 7-1 for the demotion, with Councilman Barry Mowrer opposing. Councilman John Hiestand was absent.
