Court clerk
In January 1899, Leadley was removed as the Police Court clerk after an investigation revealed a new shortage of approximately $10,000 in his books. When the shortage was discovered, Leadley was reported to be missing, and a warrant was issued for his arrest. By March 1899, Leadley was still in hiding as the city accountant reported that, even as the investigation was nearing its end, additional funds had been embezzled during Leadley's final days in office.