Former Murrieta Police Chief to Get $116K in Worker's Comp Claim

The city of Murrieta will pay $116,000 to settle a worker’s compensation claim filed by former Police Chief Mark Wright.

The decision to settle the claim was made during a closed session portion of Tuesday's City Council meeting, in which Council members voted 5-0 in favor of the action, according to Murrieta City Attorney Leslie Devaney. There was no public Council discussion on the matter.

Wright, who served as chief for eight years before accepting an early retirement incentive—two months' salary—in April 2011, filed a claim for back injury as well as problems with his circulatory system, stomach, and skin, according to a report found on the California Division of Workers' Compensation website.

Wright claims he suffered these injuries between July 2009 and July 2010 while fulfilling his job duties for the city, the claim information showed.

Current police Chief Mike Baray served as captain before being promoted to interim chief upon Wright's retirement. Baray now serves as the city's permanent chief.

Editor's Note: Patch has submitted a formal request to the City for more documentation on Wright's claim.