Judge denies Milwaukee request for more time, former MPD Chief Alfonso Morales to be reinstated July 3

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Milwaukee County Judge Christopher Foley declined a request to delay the reinstatement of former Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales Thursday, June 24.

Morales is set to be reinstated on July 3, just nine days away, if the city cannot come to a settlement with its former chief, who Foley ruled was improperly demoted by the Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission last August.

Attorney Frank Gimbel said his client has every intention to return to his former position, and believes rank-and-file officers would welcome the return of a leader with Morales' values.

"The stresses on a police job are coming from organizations that have some legitimate complaints about historical relationships between them and the police, but at this present time, you know, I think that there is a need to protect persons and property," Gimbel said.

Attorney Nate Cade, representing Milwaukee, asked Foley to stay his ruling as the city appealed it. He argued thrusting Morales back into his old role would create a troubling situation for the city.

"Morales could certainly turn around and have an entirely different direction for the city," Cade said. "The same for command staff. Mr. Morales could shuffle the command staff immediately."

Judge Foley maintained his view that Morales was improperly demoted, despite the potential issues that are caused by the uncertainty surrounding Milwaukee's police chief vacancy.

"This disgraceful action by the commission has created complete uncertainty and total chaos in this community," Foley said.

It is still possible for the two sides to reach a settlement by July 3, but Gimbel said he does not believe that will happen.