A City of Grants Pass employee has been placed on administrative leave after felony-level sex crime charges involving a juvenile were filed against him, prompting an internal employment investigation. The decision to place the employee on leave took effect June 13, 2025, city officials confirmed.
James Conway, who serves as an Economic Development Specialist for the city, was removed from active duty following the city’s receipt of information regarding the serious criminal charges. City leaders initiated an employment investigation in response to learning of the allegations, which involve felony sex crimes related to a juvenile victim. The specific details of the case have not yet been publicly released by law enforcement, as the criminal investigation remains ongoing.
Placing an employee on administrative leave under these circumstances is a standard procedural step that enables the city to conduct its internal review without the employee actively participating in municipal operations. The action also ensures that the workplace is safeguarded while the legal and employment processes move forward.
City leadership has emphasized that its employees are expected to meet high ethical and moral standards, particularly when it comes to matters impacting public trust. In this case, the nature of the charges—given their severity and connection to alleged crimes against a minor—has elevated the urgency and seriousness of the city’s response.
Conway’s role in the city’s Economic Development Department involved working with local businesses, promoting economic growth, and helping implement job creation initiatives across Grants Pass. His removal from that position is not expected to disrupt ongoing departmental projects, as other staff members have been assigned to maintain continuity of service.
While Conway is currently on administrative leave, no further employment action will be taken until the city’s internal investigation is completed. That investigation will proceed in parallel with the criminal case now moving through the justice system.
At this stage, it is unclear how long either process will take. City officials have stated they will determine the most appropriate course of action regarding Conway’s employment once the legal and internal reviews have reached their respective conclusions.
Conway will remain on administrative leave for the foreseeable future, with no announced date for a potential return or final employment decision. Under public employment law, certain due process rights apply, but the gravity of the charges will weigh heavily in the city’s ultimate determination.
Meanwhile, city operations within the Economic Development Department are continuing, with staff members taking steps to ensure that projects and business support activities remain on track.
The community is expected to follow developments in the case closely as additional information emerges through both the court system and the city’s internal review. Updates from the city regarding employment decisions will be provided in compliance with public records law and applicable personnel privacy considerations.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are anticipated in the weeks ahead.