California’sHigh Speed Rail Authority chiefhas revealed he will take a leave of absence after beingarrested over a domestic violence disputewith his fiancée.
Ian Choudri was picked up by cops at his home in Folsom, near Sacramento, on February 4, when he allegedly tried to intervene in a fight between Lyudmyla “Mila” Starostyuk and his teenage daughter.
A neighbor called cops just before midnight after seeing Choudri, Starostyuk and the girl arguing in their front yard, according to people familiar with the incident.
The 57-year-old allegedly tried to step in as they fought, but was later arrested on suspicion of domestic battery, the Post understands.
Starostyuk, 46, an advisory manager, was also arrested – on suspicion of domestic battery and suspicion of child abuse.
California High-Speed Rail Authority Peter Whippy said in a statement on Tuesday night: “While CEO Choudri has informed the California High-Speed Rail Authority Board that he is not aware of any evidence of wrongdoing, he has voluntarily agreed to take a temporary leave to allow the Board and our parent agency, the California State Transportation Agency, to fully review and assess the situation.
“We are taking this matter seriously, consistent with our longstanding commitment to public responsibility, transparency, and accountability.
“The California High-Speed Rail Authority’s work continues without interruption, and our priorities remain unchanged.”
KCRAreported it had seen a memo sent to staff saying Chief of Staff Mark Tollefson will take over in the interim.
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Source: California Post – Breaking California News, Photos & Videos
