Eckhardt to have closed Merit Board hearing March 8

A Merit Board hearing for Lt. Larry Eckhardt of the Maricopa Police Department is scheduled for March 8.

Eckhardt, who earns $87,150 yearly, was placed on paid administrative leave July 22 and the sent back to work in the Criminal Investigations Division by Interim Police Chief Steven Stahl in November.

Stahl, who was recently appointed permanent chief, said in November it was a better use of taxpayer dollars to have Eckhardt at work rather than sitting at home.

City spokeswoman LaTricia Woods said Eckhardt has requested a closed hearing and it will not be open to the public.