Mayor, City Manager Support Chief Dyer During Federal Drug Investigation of Deputy Chief

As federal agents conduct a drug investigation on Keith Foster, deputy chief of the Fresno Police Department, some of Fresno’s top leaders are expressing their support for Police Chief Jerry Dyer and the department he leads.

"When asked whether or not again this incident has shaken my confidence in Chief Dyer, let me reiterate, the answer is no," said Fresno City Manager Bruce Rudd during a press conference Friday.

Federal agents arrested Foster Thursday, investigating him for allegedly conspiring to distribute and/or possess oxycodone, marijuana and heroin with the intent to distribute. Five others were also arrested for their alleged involvement.

A judge released Foster from federal custody Friday pending his next court hearing.

Friday morning, Fresno Mayor Ashley Swearengin, Rudd and Dyer met with FBI agents.

Swearengin said FBI agents told her, based on their investigation, no other members of the department are involved.

"This is an isolated incident and one that could not have been forseen," Swearengin said.

Still, Dyer is dealing with the shock of being blindsided by the allegations against Foster, who’s been his right-hand man for 8 years.

"I would think that if anyone would’ve known or suspected something occurring of a criminal nature, that it would’ve been me," Dyer said.

But according to the federal criminal complaint, agents began investigating foster in December of 2014 as a result of a nearly year-long investigation on other suspects.

Dyer said he feels confused but is reserving judgment until all of the facts have come forward.

Apologetic, he asked the community not to lose trust in the Fresno Police Department.

"I would like to stand here before you and to express my heartfelt apologies to the citizens of Fresno and to the law enforcement profession for the erosion of trust that has occurred as well as the negative light this incident has brought onto the law enforcement profession," Dyer said.

Rudd said he’s asked Fresno’s Independent Police Auditor to advise him on whether any changes need to be made internally in the police department.

Meanwhile, the Fresno Police Department has started an internal investigation of their own.

Foster remains on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. He’s been stripped of his peace officer powers and has had his department-issued equipment removed, also pending the outcome of the investigation.