Part of the fallout or not? At this point, the reason for the departure of N.C. Department of Public Safety Chief Operating Officer Ellis Boyle is unclear.
But Boyle’s resignation—effective Monday, according to a DPS release today—comes as agency officials confirm seven prison officials have lost their jobs in the wake of the death of an Alexander County inmate March 12, first reported in the Indy April 1. According to DPS spokeswoman Pam Walker, five of those workers were fired; two resigned.
As of this afternoon, DPS’ communications office had not responded to inquiries regarding Boyle’s departure, particularly whether the resignation is related to an ongoing investigation into the death of inmate Michael Anthony Kerr.
Today, DPS Secretary Frank Perry named Lorrie Dollar, the former commissioner of DPS administration, acting chief operating officer. Dollar was a private practice attorney before joining DPS.
“Mrs. Dollar has a wealth of experience in legal, financial and personnel matters in both state government and the private sector,” Perry said in the release. “I appreciate her willingness to step into this extremely important role and take on more responsibilities during this time of transition.”
Stay tuned to the Indy for updates.