Ark Valley News - Postmaster removed amid investigation

Postmaster removed amid investigation
By Chris Strunk
Last Updated: May 31, 2017

The postmaster was placed on administrative leave and an investigation into an allegation of misconduct at the Valley Center Post Office is underway.

The News has learned that Valley Center Postmaster Dale Johnston was removed from his job earlier this month.

The U.S. Postal Service's Office of Inspector General confirmed in an email that it began an investigation after receiving "an allegation pertaining to the professional and ethical conduct of a postal service employee at the Valley Center Post Office."

"It's still an ongoing investigation," said Mike Ridley, assistant special agent in charge of the Western Area Field Office. "There is not a lot we can disclose at this time."

Ridley did not connect the investigation to a specific employee.

However, according to a Valley Center police report, police were called to the post office at 205 E. Main on May 4, where officers removed Johnston from the property because he refused to leave after he was let go.

Police Sgt. Lloyd Newman said Johnston left the post office without incident after officers arrived.

In an email, Ridley said his office considers the allegation to be "a very serious matter," but he would not specify the nature of the accusation.

"When these types of allegations are made, USPS OIG special agents will vigorously investigate these matters, as is being done in this instance," Ridley said. "It is important to note that an allegation is merely an accusation. All persons are presumed innocent unless otherwise adjudicated by a court of law."

Attempts to reach Johnston were unsuccessful.

Editor's note: Correction was made May 30. Dale Johnson was not fired, but rather placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.