New Castle demotes police chief and seeks replacement

NEW CASTLE, Pa.-- The New Castle city council has voted not to reappoint sitting police Chief Tom Sansone to his position.  During a Tuesday night meeting, council  turned down the mayor's reappointment of Sansone by a 3-1 vote.  However, council approved the reappointments for fire chief and the other department heads.

Council president MaryAnne Gavrile, William Panella and Richard Beshero all voted against the police chief. Ed Yerage was the only council member to vote on his behalf.  Those who voted not to reappoint Sansone failed to make any specific comments explaining their decision.  However, some city officials wishing to remain anonymous have commented they think Sansone was the target of a planned political decision.

Sansone was not at the meeting.  He has been on vacation this week and could not be reached by reporters.  Officials say he can return to his rank of lieutenant.  He became chief in 2004 and has managed a number of high profile investigations and cases.  He's been with the NCPD for the 26 years.

Mayor Anthony Mastrangelo will now offer a nomination to council for a new police chief.  He must select someone with significant time with the NCPD.  No word yet if city leaders will name an interim chief.