Review Finds Leadership Woes Within Pueblo Police

PUEBLO, Colo. (AP) - A review commissioned by the Pueblo City Council says the city's police force suffers from a lack of leadership, poor morale, abuse of sick leave and a widespread perception that some officers get preferential treatment.

The Pueblo Chieftain reports that a consulting firm submitted its report to the council on Monday. The council asked for the $47,000 review after internal problems came to light during a search to replace Chief Jim Billings.

Billings retired in February.

Interim Police Chief Luis Velez says he's already taken some corrective steps, changing disciplinary policy and working with the mayor to change sick-leave policies.

Detective Ken Rhodes, president of the police union, says he doesn't object to the report's portrayal of the department.

He says officers told the consultants about many of the problems.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved.)