MINOT, ND ( KXNET ) — $50,000 of taxpayer money is how much city leaders are spending to investigate a police chief. And that’s because Minot City Council members are now handing the investigation of the Minot Police Department’s Chief, John Klug, off to a third party.

Current and former officers are accusing Chief Klug of sexual harassment, creating a hostile work environment, inconsistent discipline, and more. Chief Klug is on paid administrative leave.

The council voted unanimously to retain an external investigator, who they said has experience with investigating police departments and knowledge of public safety.

The $50,000 comes from the General Fund, originally budgeted for MPD and new officers. The force is currently down 15 officers.

MPD staff told city leaders they prefer the investigation be done outside of city management.

“It was strongly supported by members and the staff of the police department that a third-party investigator be brought in to conduct this investigation,” explained Harold Stewart, Minot’s City Manager. “So we are following the will and the feedback of staff to try to have as much participation and integrity in this as we can.”

Although $50,000 is being allocated, Harold estimates the investigation should only cost about $30,000.

The investigation is expected to be complete by November.

Leaders encourage any former or current staff to come forward with any information regarding Chief Klug.

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