A vote by the Douglasville City Council may ease Police Chief Chris Womack into early retirement.

In an unanimous vote, the council approved an early retirement incentive which directly affects the 48-year-old chief.  He is now considering his options.

Chief Womack returned to work in June after he was suspended with pay in May while allegations of excessive force were investigated.  The chief was cleared by an independent review of the arrest and reinstated.  He consistently maintained he did nothing wrong.

The chief later butted heads with city officials over his outspoken comments that his officers deserve higher pay.  He was instructed he did not have permission to speak to the media.

Douglasville Mayor Harvey Persons will not comment on pending personnel matters.

Chief Womack has served with Douglasville police for 30 years.