COLUMBUS — The city's police chief has become the subject of an internal investigation after questioning the need for wheelchair curb ramps.

        The investigation began Oct. 6 after complaints were received about Chief James Jackson's remarks, the Columbus Dispatch reported Saturday. Chief Jackson was interviewed as part of the investigation, the newspaper said.

        The head of the police internal-affairs bureau, Cmdr. Kim Jacobs, said the investigation should be concluded in about a week.

        Police officers are held to higher standards than other public employees and are expected to obey specific rules of conduct, she said.

        “I would expect the chief to do the same thing. Everybody's responsible for their actions,” Cmdr. Jacobs said.

        In an Oct. 5 interview with the newspaper, Chief Jackson expressed frustration with the city administration for not providing more officers. At the same time, he questioned city investments in Nationwide Arena, the DARE program, bike paths and curb ramps.

        “Who in the hell uses them?” he asked. “If they (disabled people) come out of the house, they get into a car to ride.”

        Cmdr. Jacobs said 10 complaints related to Chief Jackson's comments have been received.

        “Most people thought it was rude or unbecoming,” she said.

        Sgt. Daniel Guthrie, who conducted the investigation, concluded his interviews on Thursday. A review by Sgt. Guthrie's supervisors could take a week.

        Cmdr. Jacobs said the investigation results will be sent to Safety Director Mitchell Brown, who will decide whether punishment is warranted. She said possible punishment could range from a minor reprimand to suspension.

        A police spokesman, Sgt. Earl Smith, said it would be inappropriate for Chief Jackson to comment on an ongoing investigation.

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