(5-12-26) Shawnee Township Fire Chief Austin Miller has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of two separate investigations.
Watch the last four minutes of Shawnee Township Trustees—- video from FACEBOOK Stacy Brenneman
“Our primary commitment remains the integrity of our operations and the well-being of our community and our employees. We will continue to act in the best interests of the residents of Shawnee Township throughout the process.”
- Shawnee Township Fire Chief Austin Miller has been placed on paid administrative leave by township officials while multiple investigations are underway into alleged misconduct.
- The trustees said Miller is on leave pending the outcome of two separate investigations — including involvement by the Ohio Auditor’s Office Special Investigations Unit, which is reviewing possible criminal and ethical violations.
- This placement on leave comes as part of a continuing dispute between Miller and the township board.
Background on the dispute
- This isn’t the first time Miller’s status has changed — he was previously put on paid leave in late 2025 amid internal conflicts.
- Late last year, after a lengthy controversy between the fire chief and trustees, a settlement was reached that dropped charges against him, although disagreements over policies and investigation language continued.
- Coverage at the time described a months-long battle over his employment and conduct that drew attention from the local fire union and community.
What’s not yet public
- Officials have not publicly released detailed allegations or specific charges against Miller. The investigations are ongoing and authorities have kept the precise nature of the complaints confidential for now.
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