(A) Leaves of absence without pay of less than ten (10) days may be granted by the Chief of Police, in his sole discretion. Leaves of from ten (10) to thirty (30) days must be approved by the City Manager.
(B) Leaves of more than thirty (30) days must also be approved by the Board of Commissioners.
(C) All leaves are discretionary, and whether they are granted will depend upon departmental conditions at the time. In no case will a leave be granted to enable an officer to participate in an election or political campaign in a manner that would not be permitted while he is an officer under these rules and regulations.
(1976 Code, App. F, § 17)