INDEPENDENCE, Mo. -- Independence Police Chief Adam Dustman is speaking out Thursday, June 5, to give his side of the story amid swirling rumors about his recent leave from the department.

In a revealing interview with FOX4, Dustman categorically denied allegations tied to an incident during National Police Week and emphasized his commitment to the job he loves.

Since May 23, Chief Dustman has been off the job, stepping away to address “personal issues.”

“I have personal issues going on. I’ve decided to take time. I’ve gone through a rough couple of years with the department and the loss we’ve had," he said when asked about the reasons for his leave.

"With the addition of personal issues, now is the time to take some time away to focus on being the best me I can be and the best dad I c

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