Columbus Police Assistant Chief Investigated for Leaving Gun Unattended

A Columbus police assistant chief has come under scrutiny after she left her gun unattended in a restroom, an incident that has prompted an investigation by the city’s Department of Inspector General.

The gun, belonging to First Assistant Chief Lashanna, was discovered in the bathroom of the Ohio Department of Public Safety headquarters on a Tuesday afternoon, according to reports. This building is located within the Charles D. Shipley Building complex on West Broad Street in the Hilltop area of Columbus. However, there is some discrepancy regarding the exact location where the firearm was found, with one source indicating it was in a women's restroom at the Charles D. Shipley Building itself, while others suggest it was in the Ohio Department of Public Safety headquarters.

The discovery of the weapon was made by the Ohio State Highway Patrol, adding another layer to the unusual circumstances surrounding the incident. Despite the gun being left unattended, there is no report of any immediate danger or threat to public safety. However, the nature of the finding has led to a referral to the Department of Inspector General, who have now taken up the case.

The exact sequence of events following the discovery of the gun remains somewhat unclear. While one source suggests that First Assistant Chief Lashanna returned to retrieve the gun shortly after it was found, other sources indicate that she did not return immediately. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing investigation and the need for further clarification.

This incident underscores the importance of security protocols and the potential risks associated with leaving firearms unattended, especially in public buildings. It also brings attention to the role of the Columbus Department of Inspector General in overseeing such matters and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

What we know

• A Columbus police assistant chief left her gun unattended. ¹²³⁴
• The gun was found in the bathroom of the Ohio Department of Public Safety headquarters. ¹
• The gun was discovered by the Ohio State Highway Patrol on a Tuesday afternoon. ¹²³
• The gun belongs to First Assistant Chief Lashanna. ¹
• A referral has been made to the Department of Inspector General regarding this incident. ²³
• The Charles D. Shipley Building is part of the Ohio Department of Public Safety complex on West Broad Street in the Hilltop area of Columbus. ²

What remains unclear

• Whether First Assistant Chief Lashanna returned to retrieve the gun shortly after it was found. ³