Capitol Police chief demoted after probe

Friday, Jan. 30, 1998 | 10:16 a.m.

CARSON CITY -- Randy Smith, chief of the Capitol Police for nearly three years, has been demoted because of an irregular hiring incident.

Ray Sparks, deputy director in the state Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety, said Thursday there were allegations of misconduct against Smith and an internal affairs investigation sustained some of the charges, Sparks said.

He declined to reveal the nature of the allegations but said they involved the "irregular hiring of an employee" on the 24-member force that provides security for state buildings in Carson City and Las Vegas.

Smith, whose position pays between $36,000 and $50,000 annually, could not be reached for comment. He is being demoted a sergeant.

He is the second chief in a row to lose his title because of controversy.

James Hensen was demoted when he tangled with Angelo Webster, chief of the dignitary protection program for Gov. Bob Miller. Hensen, who lasted 11 months in the job, had opposed creating a new security force to guard the governor and his family.

Before becoming chief, Smith headed security at the Grant Sawyer Office Building in Las Vegas.

Law enforcement sources, who refused to be identified, said Smith, while in Las Vegas on a visit, had stayed at a hotel-casino where he received a free room. The room was "comped" by the wife of a capitol police force job applicant. The man was later hired.

But Smith has told associates he never knew he received a free room until later and he repaid the state the per diem he received for the room.

Smith has until Feb. 16 to appeal his demotion but Sparks said Smith has indicated he will not protest.

A recruitment effort will be made for applicants, Sparks said. If more than five people apply, there will be a state test for the classified position. If less than five submit applications, Sparks said state officials could just do interviews before selecting a replacement.