MOUNT VERNON — Mount Vernon Fire Chief Shawn Christy was placed on paid administrative leave Thursday afternoon, according to Safety-Service Director David Glass.

The leave is indefinite until the issue is resolved, Glass said. In the absence of the chief, Assistant Chief Chris Menapace assumes the duties for the department.

Christy had no comment on the matter other than to admit surprise at being placed on leave.

“I’m in the dark on this as much as anybody,” Christy said.

Glass refused to disclose information on what led to the suspension and said he hadn’t heard about a complaint filed Dec. 29, 2010, with the Ohio Department of Public Safety Emergency Medical Services.

The complaint, filed by an investigator with the State Fire Marshal’s Office, alleges that Christy “has been giving false statements on his re-certification paperwork for his paramedic certification.” The investigator stated in the complaint he was informed that Christy “does not and has not in the past had the correct number of continuing education required though when he fills out the form he has been stating that he has had enough hours.”

Glass reiterated he had no comment on whether the complaint had any bearing on Christy’s suspension.

Geoff Dutton of the communications office of ODPS said he could not comment on an open case. He said the case must go before the state board whether there is a decision made or not. The next meeting of the ODPS board will be in July, but as of Friday, Dutton said the case is not on the meeting’s agenda.