In a surprising turn of events, the entire police department of Geary, Oklahoma, tendered their resignations en masse on Thursday, leaving the local populace in a state of bewilderment.
"To the Citizens of Geary. We regret to inform you, and we are sad to say that our entire Police Force resigned this morning at 10:00 am," announced Terryl Allen, Geary Public Information Officer. Despite the abrupt departure of the police force, Allen reassured the community that an interim Chief of Police had been promptly appointed, ensuring the city's safety would not be compromised.
According to Fox News, the Blaine County Sheriffs Office and the Canadian County Sheriffs Office have been alerted to the situation and have extended their support during this transitional phase. The sudden resignation of the entire police force sparked a flurry of questions from the local community on social media, with many asking for an explanation behind the mass exodus.
The outgoing Geary Police Chief, Alicia Ford, hinted at possible tensions with the Geary City Council in her resignation statement. "Thank you citizens of Geary for allowing me (Alicia Ford) to serve as your chief for the past year. It is with great sadness that I and the rest of the Geary Police Officers will no longer be serving this community," she wrote. Ford described the decision as a difficult one, but necessary for her and her fellow officers. She praised her team for their selfless service and dedication to the community.
In her farewell message, Ford urged the citizens of Geary to engage more actively with their council members and to participate in city council meetings. "Your voices are stronger when you stand together as one, and you all have the ability to affect the change you want to see in your community," she advised. Ford expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and promised to cherish the memories of her time in Geary.
In the wake of Ford's departure, JJ Stitt has been appointed as the acting chief. Ford had assumed the role of Chief in 2023, following the dismissal of former Chief Cecil Harrall by the city council amidst a scandal.
Despite the upheaval, Geary's Public Information Officer Allen reassured residents that emergency services would remain operational. "Geary residents are still able to make emergency 911 calls, and an officer will be dispatched to assist you," he confirmed.
He also informed the public that the city was working diligently to restore power and repair damage caused by a severe thunderstorm the previous evening. The unexpected resignation of the entire police force underscores the importance of community engagement in local governance, a principle that aligns with conservative values of individual freedom and limited government.
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