The mayor of Cohutta, Georgia, has dismissed the entire police force following a dispute involving his wife. Mayor Ron Shinnick shut down the town's law enforcement on Wednesday, citing 'inappropriate' comments made by officers.
Background of the Dispute
Mayor Shinnick's wife, Pam, was fired earlier this year from her position as town clerk after allegedly creating a 'hostile work environment'. Several police officers had filed complaints against her, which contributed to her termination, according to Local 3 News.
Reactions from Former Officials
Former Police Chief Greg Fowler told the outlet that town officials were not informed of the decision beforehand. He confirmed that the department building was being cleared out, with equipment removed and loaded into vehicles.
Town attorney Bryan Rayburn stated that he had assured officers just days earlier that their jobs were safe. He noted that officers feared their complaints about the hostile environment would lead to their dismissal. 'I don't think them exercising their First Amendment right and filing complaints is a valid reason to fire anybody,' Rayburn said.
Former Sergeant's Accusation
Former Sgt. Jeremy May, who was fired on Wednesday, described the move as a 'personal vendetta'. He said: 'The citizens and the constituents of Cohutta are going to suffer because of the retaliation from the mayor, due to the fact that we brought to light about his spouse still working after she was terminated.'
May questioned whether the sheriff's office could cover the area previously served by the full-time department, raising concerns about public safety.
Sheriff's Office Takes Over
The Whitfield County Sheriff's Office has assumed responsibility for law enforcement in Cohutta. Sheriff Darren J. Pierce stated: 'It is my sworn duty to provide law enforcement services and protection to everyone in our community. This transition ensures that those who live in the Cohutta City limits will still receive assistance.'
The town council has scheduled a meeting for Friday to consider ousting Mayor Shinnick and reinstating the police department.
