Ernest Morales III is no longer the police chief of Metro Transit, a month and a half after KARE 11 reported he was put on leave.
A spokesperson with the Metropolitan Council confirmed to KARE 11 Monday that Morales is "no longer an employee." They did not elaborate on why he is no longer employed with the agency, or the circumstances of the exit.
Morales was sworn in in March of 2023. He said at the time his number one priority was to instill the feeling of safety. He took over at a time when the organization was reporting a rise in violent crime and drug use on buses and trains.
On Aug. 9, KARE 11 reported Morales was put on leave, but a spokesperson with the Metropolitan Council did not clarify why or for how long the leave would continue.
Captain Joseph Dotseth has agreed to serve as Interim Metro Transit Police Chief, officials said.