Embattled Morningside Police Chief Resigns
02/14/13

The town of Morningside may once again be resuming its search for a Chief of Police. Jeffery Gray the department’s most recent Chief has involuntarily resigned following a vote by the Town Board to terminate him from the position. Sources report that shortly before his resignation, letters of no confidence were submitted to the town board by all except one of his subordinates. Chief Gray was with the department for a short tenure of less than five months.
Employees assert that Chief Gray through his actions has demonstrated that he does not possess the operational command experience, interpersonal qualities and other characteristics necessary for the Chiefs position. Employees further asserted that he is unsuited for the position due to an “arrogant and indifferent attitude” towards his staff. One current employee described Chief Gray as having a jackal and Hyde personality, claiming that publicly he presented a friendly façade but privately he employed bullying tactics and used obscenities while communicating with his employees. Allegations also included unfair labor practices related to overtime pay, failing to foster teamwork, and causing morale to steadily deteriorate which damaged the effectiveness of the department. An employee who wished not to be identified stated that when asked whether employees could continue to work under the leadership of Chief Gray, there was a resounding “no” from all present. The fact that Chief Gray has severely damaged the effectiveness and harmony with-in the department in such a short amount of time is astounding, said the employee. The employee also quipped that Chief Gray’s conduct would be worthy of a starring character role in the movie “Horrible Bosses”.
Chief Gray is a retired member of the Prince George’s County Police Department where he rose only to the rank of corporal. Chief Gray also served as a Special Assistant to Chief David Rice of the New Carrollton Police Department for a short period of time.
An acting Chief has not been officially named however we have learned that the department’s second highest ranking official is likely to take command until a permanent appointment is made.