Former Ballwin police chief charged with drunk driving while on duty

BALLWIN, Missouri (First Alert 4) – Recently released documents provide further insight into the decision to fire a police chief in Ballwin.

Douglas Schaeffler served as Ballwin's police chief from December 2019 to December 2023. He was placed on leave in October 2023 pending an investigation into his workplace conduct. Two months later, the Ballwin City Council voted unanimously to fire him.

The documents state that Schaeffler was accused of purchasing alcohol while on duty and/or in uniform and driving his company vehicle while intoxicated. The documents also allege that Schaeffler “created a culture” where it was believed that drinking alcohol or smoking cigars with him would help an employee advance in the department. He is also accused of misusing the REJIS network and violating the anti-harassment and discrimination policy.

Schaffler sued the city of Ballwin in January, claiming the city council “conspired to remove him from office and wrongfully fire him” after referring complaints about the mayor and a former city manager to an outside police agency for investigation. The city claims the city had no reason to fire Schaeffler, nor did it allow for due process.

In June, a lawsuit was filed against Scheffler and the city of Ballwin, accusing the former police chief of running more than 1,000 names through a police database. Those searched included those who lived or worked in Ballwin or spoke at a public meeting in Ballwin.

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