Medina’s former police chief, Jeffrey Chen, spoke publicly Thursday for the first time since he was fired in April.

Chen was terminated on April 27 under accusations of misuse of company e-mail, destroying public records, and improper use of city resources. He had not previously discussed his case publicly, although he released a 51-page rebuttal of the investigation’s findings.

“I did nothing illegal, immoral, or unethical,” said Chen. “What I’m guilty of…is not getting along with my boss.”

The petition to reinstate Chen and fire City Manager Donna Hanson has almost four hundred signatures. Citizens fixated on the June 13 Medina City Council meeting as an opportunity to voice their opinions – three of the seven council members are up for reelection, and several citizens expressed the hope that the reelection would encourage council members to act in accordance with the popular sentiment.

The council has the authority to dismiss the city manager, but not to hire or fire department heads – that power, under law, falls to the city manager.

Chen had been under investigation since late December after resigning from his position before rescinding his handwritten resignation a week later, then being placed on administrative leave.

“The position of Police Chief is vital to the Medina and Hunts Points communities. It was determined that Chief Chen’s departure, while extremely difficult, is ultimately in the best interests of the City, its residents, and the Medina Police Department,” said Hanson in a statement following Chen’s firing.

Chen reiterated, though, that this investigation against him was not fair or independent.

“Blatant lies,” he said.

Chen also expressed a willingness to return to his position.

“It would be difficult, but I’m a professional…I would put aside any malice, revenge, or unprofessional conduct,” he said. However, his primary reason for coming forward now, he said, was to clear his name.

At the public forum, several citizens praised Chen and his work as police chief. “You’re a class act, and I do consider you my friend,” said Roger Barbee, who has been a Medina citizen for 62 years.