The highest-ranking law enforcement officer in the city of Madison has been placed on administrative leave and may not return to his post.
According to city officials, Chief John McIlvaine, who was hired in August of 2024, was placed on leave on May 1 and is receiving full pay and benefits for the time being.
City officials would not speculate on how long McIlvaine might be on leave or comment on the reasons for City Manager John Klimm’s decision.
McIlvaine previously served with the City of Stockbridge in Henry County and expressed his commitment to the community when given the job of Madison police chief: “I am deeply honored and humbled to serve as the Chief of Police for the City of Madison. My goal is to foster a strong partnership with the citizens of Madison, ensuring that together, we build a safe, supportive, and vibrant environment for everyone. I look forward to working hand in hand with our dedicated officers and the community to achieve this shared vision.”
Chief McIlvaine held various key positions throughout his career, including police officer, senior police officer, domestic violence detective, sergeant, and lieutenant.
Upon his appointment, Klimm had a glowing evaluation of McIlvaine’s qualifications and professionalism during the hiring process, as he explained why he hired the new chief.
Madison’s previous police chief, Bill Ashburn, retired somewhat abruptly in 2024, prompting speculation that his departure was due to an audit of the police department that revealed low morale among officers and staff.
Roy Whitehead, who served as Madison’s interim police chief for four months in 2024, has returned as chief in McIlvaine’s absence.
According to police1.com, “the average tenure of a chief of police these days is about two and a half to three years — 40 years ago it was roughly twice that.”
A source close to the situation said McIlvaine may already have secured a new position with an area police department.
Officials contacted by the Lake Oconee News say City Attorney Tony Powell has advised them not to comment on the police chief situation.
Mayor Fred Perriman said the city manager is responsible for personnel matters concerning the city of Madison.
“We’ll just leave it at that,” Perriman said.
City councilman Eric Joyce was also largely tight-lipped about the chief’s status.
Carrie Peters-Reid, a member of the Madison City Council since 2014, said she could not comment on a personnel matter.
Personnel issues stirred controversy in July of 2024 when Klimm’s management style was criticized in an anonymous letter sent to the mayor and city council.
The letter claimed several members of the city’s staff, including City Attorney Jimmy Carter, who left in April of 2023, City Clerk Ashley Hawk, and the head of the utility department, all left because of Klimm.
Klimm dismissed the letter as a series of false allegations.