YSU police chief suspended pending mismanagement investigation

YOUNGSTOWN

John Beshara will retain the title and salary of Youngstown State University police chief through June 30, but he’s been relieved of his duties.

A copy of a letter delivered Thursday to Beshara by Shannon Tirone, associate vice president for university relations, informs Beshara that his contract, which expires June 30, will not be renewed.

The Vindicator obtained the letter by filing a public-records

request.

“Due to an ongoing investigation into fiscal and operational matters and/or misuse of management authority you are also being immediately placed on paid administrative leave until the conclusion of the investigation, at which time you may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment,” the April 28 letter said. “You will be notified of the outcome of the investigation and the status of your administrative leave.”

“Representing yourself as a university police officer or chief of police in any capacity to anyone is prohibited,” the letter said.

His email has been disabled.

Lt. Shawn Varso has been appointed acting chief.

Read more about the matter in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.