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A Quebec City suburb has temporarily lost its police chief because he's been busted on drinking and driving charges.

The top cop in Levis, Que., Jean-Francois Roy, was stopped while driving downtown and he allegedly failed a breathalyzer test.

The 55-year-old chief has been temporarily suspended from his duties and is reportedly being replaced by his deputy.

The suburban mayor held a news conference Thursday to express her administration's dismay.

"It's a shock," said Danielle Roy-Marinelli, the mayor of Levis.

"This isn't something we like. It's unacceptable for a police chief to be in a situation like this.

"Because, naturally, a police chief is a powerful symbol in a community. He assures the safety of citizens. So the entire police service is in shock, too."

One report said the arrest happened after a citizen noticed someone driving erratically and called the cops.

The police officers that arrested Mr. Roy - in Quebec City - do not belong to the force he commands in suburban Levis.

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