FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ/KFSN) — During a city council meeting on Wednesday, Fresno Police Chief Paco Balderrama addressed members of the media in the hallway regarding allegations he’s facing of an “inappropriate off-duty relationship with a non-city employee.”
“This is the most difficult time in my life and my family’s life,” Balderrama said outside of council chambers. “I’ve never claimed to be perfect.”
Balderrama asked for grace and forgiveness from the public as the investigation continues. He said he has received “hundreds” of messages from the community with bible verses and words of encouragement, even pulling out a rosary he says an officer gave to him.
“My family’s not doing well, and I’m not doing well,” he said.
Balderrama said he cannot comment on the allegations because of the ongoing investigation but said he plans to continue leading the department as chief.
“I believe I have the support of the community,” he said.
Balderrama also praised the work of his department, calling it one of the best in America.
The Fresno Police Officers’ Association is set to hold an emergency meeting regarding the investigation into Balderrama on Wednesday.
He has been the Fresno police chief for three and a half years.
City officials revealed last Thursday that Balderrama came to them in February to inform them about allegations of an inappropriate relationship.
City Attorney Andrew Janz said late Monday that the investigation into Balderrama is ongoing and will be “thorough.”
City officials will review the final report confidentially, Janz said.
Listen to Chief Paco Balderrama addressing members of the media in the hallway:
