Maysville Police Chief Retires Following Physical Altercation with Assistant Chief, Documents Show
MAYSVILLE, Ky. (Mason County Post) Maysville Police Chief Michael Palmer retired effective Dec. 1 after a physical confrontation with Assistant Chief Chris Conley, according to court documents obtained by FOX19.
The incident supposedly stemmed from a heated discussion about social media posts that reportedly led to complaints from Palmer’s wife and the department chaplain. Conley filed a formal complaint alleging workplace violence, retaliation, unprofessional conduct, bullying, and the creation of an unsafe and hostile work environment.
According to the complaint, Palmer questioned Conley about the posts and became irate. When Conley attempted to leave the room, Palmer grabbed him by both vest straps near the shoulders, restraining him while yelling.
Conley, who was not wearing his own body camera, activated Palmer’s device during the altercation. The footage captures Palmer acknowledging the physical contact.
“I’m sorry I put my hands on you, but I’m sorry you’re not going to come at me that way either,” Palmer said in the recording.
Conley responded: “You’re not going to touch me. Get out of my way. We’re going to city hall. Let’s go.”
Palmer continued: “I apologize for putting hands on you… You want my job, Chris?”
“I don’t want your job,” Conley replied.
Conley had reportedly documented prior issues with Palmer and requested a thorough investigation into the incident as well as any broader patterns of misconduct.
In response, the city manager allegedly sent a letter stating that Palmer had chosen to retire, This marks the end of Palmer’s tenure with the Maysville Police Department, where he had served in various roles since 2002, rising through the ranks from patrol officer to chief.
The department and city have not yet released further details on leadership transition or any ongoing internal review.