Quote Quoting huntsab
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In CA, when a police chief is being investigated for misconduct stemming from internal complaints, do the protections of the POBOR apply to him, as well?
Yes, they do (see GC 3300-3313 and, specifically, 3304). There are several court cases that affirm the right of POBR protections even to a Chief of Police.

However, this simply covers termination for allegations of misconduct, issues of notice, etc. It does NOT protect a Chief of Police when addressing issues of non-renewal of a contract or other contractual matters that might result in his termination under the existing employment contract. For instance, if the contract allows for termination without cause under certain circumstances (such as giving 90 days notice and a payout of 6 months salary and benefits), then they can do so without regard for POBR issues.

This police chief was, initially, placed on administrative leave, then reinstated after the city council met in closed session to discuss the city manager's decision to suspend him during the investigation.
"Administrative leave" is NOT a suspension or termination as it is not punishment, so there was no reinstatement. He was merely returned to full duty from the admin. leave. So long as he drew his salary there would appear to be no POBR violation for beuing placed on admin. leave. termination might be another matter entirely.

What government code could I research to understand this process and the confidentiality afforded government officials?
GC 3300-3313.

Understand that any personnel investigation for misconduct is confidential and only the employee subject to the investigation can waive that confidentiality. So, if you are asking if you (the public) can find out what was discussed or what he was investigated for, that ain't likely to happen. The city would have to be very vague about the issues involved if they want to avoid being sued into oblivion.