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GREENSBORO - Greensboro police Chief David A. Wray has been stripped by the city manager of his full authority to fire or transfer police employees.

Wray must first consult with City Manager Mitchell Johnson prior to issuing promotions, demotions, transfers, suspensions or terminations, according to a memo Johnson sent top police administrators on Friday.

"He's clearing (moves) with me so I have an opportunity to be aware before actions are taken," Johnson said late Monday. "If there's something that may cause me concern, I have the opportunity to take action if appropriate."

Johnson said it has been common practice for Wray and past chiefs to keep the city informed about major personnel moves, but the memo makes it formal policy for now.

In his memo, Johnson cited the "large number" of retirements last month and "administrative decisions regarding promotions" that are the "subject of current review."

Wray did not return a phone call or e-mail seeking comment on Monday. A message left for Wray with the department's spokeswoman also went unreturned.

Johnson said that in his talk with Wray, the chief was "very professional in his response."

The memo is the latest chapter in a tumultuous period for Greensboro police.

Johnson made his move just days before he expects a report from a private consulting firm and the city attorney's office on the actions of the Special Intelligence Section, a squad found trailing a high-profile African American lieutenant in June.

The city is paying the firm, Risk Management Associates, $140 an hour to assist with the report on Special Intelligence, and Johnson said it is unlikely disciplinary actions, if any, will be made before the new year.

Johnson begins his vacation Wednesday and returns Jan. 2. The first City Council meeting of the new year is Jan. 10, though council members do not possess direct control over personnel matters.

Risk Management helped administer lie detector tests for several top police officials.

Who took the tests remains shrouded by state personnel law, but two high-ranking officers retired in late November on short notice and with no public fanfare.

Former Deputy Chief Randall Brady, who oversaw Special Intelligence activities, and Capt. Matt Lojko, the man who ran internal affairs, left Dec. 1 and Nov. 30, respectively. Both men had spent decades in law enforcement.

Wray announced 20 promotions or transfers in the 550-officer department this autumn following the retirement of several officers last month. The captain who supervises the Greensboro Police Department's special operations division is filling in for Brady on an interim basis.

The internal affairs position remained open as of Monday.

Lt. James Hinson, the officer who found Special Intelligence following his police cruiser, remains on paid suspension. His annual salary is more than $64,000.

Contact Eric J.S. Townsend at 373-7008 or etownsend@news-record.com