Fullerton Acting Chief of Police Orders Unpaid Administrative Leave for Officers Charged in Kelly Thomas Murder

Officer Manuel Ramos and Corporal Jay Cicinelli, the two Fullerton police officers charged in the death of Kelly Thomas, will be placed on unpaid administrative leave, announced Fullerton's Acting Chief of Police Kevin Hamilton today. Fullerton's Chief of Police Michael Sellers has been on paid medical leave since early August.

“I intend to place Officer Manuel Ramos and Corporal Jay Cicinelli on unpaid administrative leave, effective October 8, 2011,” said Hamilton, according to CBS LA.

Ramos is accused of second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter, while Cicinelli faces one count of involuntary manslaughter and one count of use of excessive force. Both officers are currently free on bail. Ramos was released on $1 million bail this morning, thanks to the donations of his friends, family and other police unions, collected by the officers' union.

“The intent to change their pay status was made after consulting with our City Attorneys regarding law that is relevant to this area,” Hamilton said, adding that "Officer Ramos and Corporal Cicinelli will be afforded an opportunity to respond to this proposed action and will have until the end of business on Friday, October 7, 2011 to do so."

The other four officers involved in Thomas' death have yet to be charged. An internal investigation by the OC District Attorney's Office and the FBI pends completion.