Lance Arnold placed on paid leave amid Broken Arrow investigation

Broken Arrow Police Chief Lance Arnold has been placed on paid administrative leave, city officials announced Wednesday. The temporary removal comes as the municipality prepares an internal investigation into unspecified department matters.

The City of Broken Arrow announced the personnel action on Wednesday, October 14. Deputy Chief Scott Bennett was appointed to serve as the acting police chief during the inquiry.

City Manager Michael Spurgeon said he and Assistant City Manager Norman Stephens first learned of concerns in late September.

“He and I were made aware of some matters involving the police department that we were not aware of, which is concerning in itself,” Spurgeon said.

Spurgeon reviewed the details with municipal leaders and the city legal team before deciding on the leave. He stated the choice protects the integrity of the process, the agency and the employee.

Spurgeon declined to discuss specific details of the upcoming probe.

“Discussing any aspect of this investigation right now would be inappropriate and not in the best interest of anyone,” Spurgeon said.

The investigation has not started yet. It is expected to begin next week. Spurgeon did not disclose who will conduct it or how long it will take.

When asked if funds or equipment were misused, Spurgeon refused specifics to avoid compromising the inquiry. The matter relates to events from the previous month. It does not involve Arnold’s previous agency work.

Assistant City Manager Norm Stevens informed Arnold of the decision during a Wednesday morning meeting, according to Spurgeon. The city announced no completion timeline. Officials stated they will provide no further comment on the personnel matter.

Arnold did not respond to requests for comment at the time of publication.

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 170 released a statement Wednesday backing Arnold. The union criticized city leaders for announcing the move publicly without first alerting officers.

Lodge 170 praised Arnold’s leadership since he joined the Broken Arrow agency in January 2025. The union cited advancements in modern technology, accountability and policing standards under his watch.

The group stated it respects the inquiry process and does not prejudge the outcome. However, the organization voiced frustration that no municipal representative met with officers to provide reassurance.

The union also criticized the timing of the action. Arnold had organized an upcoming regional summit for northeastern Oklahoma law enforcement leaders. He can no longer attend.

The labor organization emphasized that department members remain focused on their daily duties.

“Our officers are on duty, our mission is unchanged, and the public’s safety remains our highest priority,” the statement said.

Administrative leave relieves an employee of active duty while pay and benefits continue. The procedural status allows municipalities to review workplace issues without disruption. An acting chief assumes operational command during an administrative absence.

The city has not scheduled a date for the investigation to conclude.