Settle reinstated by Culpeper town police

Capt. Chris Settle, on paid administrative leave since Sept. 13, was reinstated Wednesday as a captain.

According to town public information officer Wally Bunker, a private investigator hired by the town to look into allegations against the 34-year-old officer found only "minor" issues. "The independent investigator reviewed all complaints made, some of which were over 2 years old," Bunker said. "The action to return Capt. Settle to work was taken by Acting Town Manager Chris Hively after a thorough evaluation of the findings of the independent investigator and consultation with the town attorney."

Former Town Manager Kim Alexander, who placed Settle on administrative leave, was fired last month, in great part because of her handling of the matter. If there is a disciplinary action resulting from the "minor" issues, they will be handled as personnel matters within the Police Department, Bunker said.

--Donnie Johnston