© 2024 Louisville Public Media

Public Files:
89.3 WFPL · 90.5 WUOL-FM · 91.9 WFPK

For assistance accessing our public files, please contact info@lpm.org or call 502-814-6500
89.3 WFPL News | 90.5 WUOL Classical 91.9 WFPK Music | KyCIR Investigations
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Stream: News Music Classical

Metro Louisville CFO on Unpaid Leave After Intoxication Arrest

The chief financial officer for Louisville Metro Government is on unpaid leave following his arrest Friday night on public intoxication and disorderly conduct charges.

According to police and media reports, Steve Rowland  and the director of the Louisville Metro Council Majority Caucus, Elizabeth Hoffman, were asked to leave a Mexican restaurant Friday night after allegedly engaging in disruptive and intimate behavior.

They were arrested after police found them in an SUV outside the restaurant, where an officer believed they were involved in sexual activity, according to the citation.

Police say neither appeared to be capable of driving an automobile.

Both were later released on their own recognizance late Friday.

In a statement, Mayor Greg Fischer said he was disappointed in Rowland’s behavior, which he called “out of character.”

Rowland also issued an apology.

In a statement regarding Hoffman, the Metro Council Democrats said: "The public expects proper conduct at all times from Metro Government employees and what happened is unfortunate. The Caucus will review this situation to determine if any action is necessary according to Caucus Rules.”

Rowland's is paid $119,917 annually, according to the city's salary database. Hoffman is paid $71,385 annually.

Rick Howlett was midday host and the host of LPM's weekly talk show, "In Conversation." He was with LPM from 2001-2023 and held many different titles, including Morning Edition host, Assignment Editor and Interim News Director. He died in August 2023. Read a remembrance of Rick here.

Can we count on your support?

Louisville Public Media depends on donations from members – generous people like you – for the majority of our funding. You can help make the next story possible with a donation of $10 or $20. We'll put your gift to work providing news and music for our diverse community.