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Fullerton Mayor Has No Plans To Resign Despite Thomas Investigation

FULLERTON (CBS) — The mayor of Fullerton has no plans to resign after the death of Kelly Thomas, a homeless man that died after a confrontation with city police.

Mayor Richard Jones met with Thomas' father, Ron Thomas, privately for about two hours Wednesday behind closed doors. Thomas wants and was certain that Jones would leave office, but Mayor Jones told KCAL 9 that he has no plans to resign.

"I understand his concerns and the concerns of the citizens," Jones said.

The meeting followed a City Council meeting Tuesday night during which the council voted to hire a consultant to investigate the death of Kelly Thomas. Thomas, 37, suffered neck and head injuries during a fight with Fullerton police on July 5. He died as a result of his injuries five days later.

City officials say they will hire Michael Gennaco, the head of the Los Angeles County Office of Independent Review, to carry out the investigation. The probe will cost as much as $70,000.

Six police officers involved in the arrest have been placed on paid leave while investigations are conducted internally, by the FBI and by the District Attorney's Office.

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