A series of unexpected resignations has left the small town of Geary, Oklahoma, grappling with significant changes in its local law enforcement and government leadership.
According to ABC News, Police Chief Alicia Ford and her entire three-officer department submitted their resignations on Thursday, along with two city council members, creating a substantial void in the town's administrative structure.
The wave of departures has affected this community of approximately 1,000 residents, situated 50 miles northwest of Oklahoma City. Former Police Chief Ford announced the mass exodus through social media, though she provided minimal explanation for the decision that has left the town scrambling to maintain essential services.
Unprecedented Leadership Transition Unfolds
Former Police Chief Ford shared her thoughts on social media, expressing her emotional response to the situation. Her message to the community emphasized the difficulty of the decision while encouraging citizen participation in local governance.
In response to the resignations, city officials have moved swiftly to ensure continuity of law enforcement services. The Blaine County and Canadian County sheriff's offices have stepped in to assist with patrolling duties while the town reorganizes its police force.
The city administration has appointed an interim police chief, though they initially did not publicly identify the appointee. JJ Stitt, who later identified himself as the interim chief, brings 27 years of law enforcement experience to the position.
Council Members Voice Concerns About Communication
City Council member Glen "Rocky" Coleman Jr. expressed his frustrations before stepping down. He pointed to significant issues with administrative communication and transparency within the local government.
Coleman shared his perspective through social media, stating:
Council members are just about the last to know something. There are often times that I would not know something (is planned) until the meeting started.
The simultaneous departure of Coleman and fellow council member Kristy Miller has left the four-person council with just one active member, as there was already a vacancy before these resignations.
Emergency Services Remain Operational During Transition
The city administration has taken steps to reassure residents about the continuation of essential services. Emergency response protocols remain unchanged, with 911 services continuing to function normally.
Interim Chief Stitt has expressed confidence in his ability to rebuild the police force quickly. His extensive law enforcement background and connections within the law enforcement community may prove beneficial during this transition period.
The situation mirrors a similar incident that occurred in Goodhue, Minnesota, where the entire police department resigned over compensation issues more than a year ago.
Small Town Faces New Chapter
The sudden departure of key leadership figures has created an unprecedented situation in Geary's local government. The town now faces the challenge of rebuilding both its law enforcement department and city council simultaneously.
The remaining city officials are working to maintain stability while searching for qualified candidates to fill the vacant positions. This transition period will test the resilience of local government structures and the community's ability to adapt to unexpected change.
