College Safety Chief Quits Amid Inquiry Into Policy Violations

Fullerton College’s safety chief has resigned during an investigation of allegations that he and two officers violated district policies.

Officials of the North Orange County Community College District said they could not divulge the nature of the allegations against the three employees, who were suspended last month, because of confidentiality rules.

District trustees accepted the resignation Tuesday night.

The chief, Alfred P. Arevalos, could not be reached for comment.

He was hired in 1992 and promoted to the job of chief about a year ago.

Arevalos and officers Ronald C. Lizardo and Phil A. Montano, who are not considered police and are not authorized to carry guns, were placed on paid leave on Oct. 9.

Montano said Tuesday that he has not been told why he was suspended.

“We haven’t heard anything since we were placed on administrative leave--no questions, absolutely nothing,” said Montano, 54, a 13-year employee. “I have no idea what they’re investigating. All I can tell you is I haven’t done anything wrong.”

Lizardo could not be reached for comment.

District administrators and attorneys expect to conclude their investigation within weeks.

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