Safety Officers at College Suspended Pending Inquiry

Fullerton College’s safety chief and two officers have been suspended while officials investigate allegations that they violated district policies.

Tom K. Harris Jr., chancellor of the North Orange County Community College District, which governs the college, said he could not divulge the allegations because of confidentiality rules.

But he did say he does not think the accusations involve criminal behavior. Police have not been notified about the matter, he said.

The suspended employees--Fullerton College’s chief of public safety, Alfred P. Arevalos, and officers Ronald C. Lizardo and Phil A. Montano--were placed on paid leave Oct. 9. Harris said he expects the district investigation, being conducted by administrators and attorneys for the college district, to conclude within weeks.

The safety officers are not considered police and are not authorized to carry guns.

Arevalos was hired four years ago and promoted to his current position about a year ago, district spokeswoman Donna Hatchett said. Lizardo and Montano were hired three and 13 years ago, respectively, she said.

None of the three employees could be reached for comment Wednesday.

Should disciplinary action be necessary, Harris said, penalties could range from a warning, demotion or a fine to dismissal or suspension without pay.