Post Falls Police Chief Scot Haug said Tuesday a criminal investigation by his department of Spirit Lake Police Chief Pat Lawless has been concluded, and no charges will be filed.

"We fully investigated it, and turned it over to prosecutors, who decided not to pursue charges," Haug said. "It's 'case closed.'"

Authorities have declined to discuss the nature of the investigation. Lawless, of Post Falls, didn't return a phone call Tuesday seeking comment.

Daniel Sheckler, Lawless' attorney, said they appreciated the Post Falls Police Department's service and diligent investigation. He said he and his client aren't surprised by the outcome.

"He's just grateful to see the process concluded," Sheckler said.

A police report said Lawless was investigated for suspicion of child abuse involving his girlfriend's two sons.

The report describes alleged spanking of the two boys with a wooden spoon, making them stand against a wall "all day," and calling them "retards."

He also was accused by the boys of pushing or kicking them down stairs, which Lawless denied, according to the police report.

The investigation started in late May.

The police report said Lawless also was investigated for child abuse in 2009, but was cleared.

The recent criminal investigation is unrelated to a tort claim filed by a former Spirit Lake police officer alleging sexual harassment by the chief.