Piedmont chief under investigation prior to resignation announcement

Officials in Piedmont say an investigation into complaints against police Chief Steven Tidwell ended when he abruptly resigned last week.

City attorney Ron Allen declined to discuss the details of those complaints. The investigation was never completed and the complaints never validated, so the documents aren’t a matter of public record.

Piedmont Mayor Bill Baker said he was advised by Allen not to comment on the matter and to refer questions to the attorney.

Tidwell resigned Oct. 10 citing health and personal reasons, and was to work out a two-week notice and remain employed until Oct. 24.

Officials say that Tidwell has taken his sick leave, and would not return to work for the remainder of his two-week notice.  

Allen said the city d complaints against Tidwell, and city officials began gathering information on the allegations, but Tidwell resigned, stopping short the investigation.

Tidwell was an 18-year veteran of the Piedmont police. He is also an attorney, an instructor at Gadsden State Community College’s Emergency Medical Services program and a part-time employee of the Piedmont Rescue Squad. Tidwell said He plans to continue working at those occupations.

Piedmont police Sgt. Freddie Norton has been named acting chief until the city names Tidwell’s replacement.