The small town of Geary, Oklahoma, finds itself in turmoil as its entire police force and two city council members abruptly resign, leaving residents concerned about public safety and potential corruption.
At a Glance
- Geary’s entire police force, including the chief, resigned unexpectedly
- Two city council members also stepped down on the same day
- An interim police chief has been appointed to maintain public safety
- Nearby county sheriff’s offices are providing temporary law enforcement support
- Residents are demanding answers and accountability from town leadership
Mass Resignations Rock Small Oklahoma Town
In a shocking turn of events, the entire police force of Geary, Oklahoma, including the chief of police, resigned en masse, leaving the town without local law enforcement. The unexpected departures have left the community of approximately 1,200 residents reeling and searching for answers. Adding to the tumult, two members of the Geary city council also tendered their resignations on the same day, further destabilizing the town’s leadership structure.
The sudden exodus of law enforcement officers has raised serious concerns about public safety and the stability of local government. Residents have expressed alarm and frustration, with many questioning the underlying reasons for the mass resignations and demanding transparency from town officials.
Geary, Oklahoma Police Chief Alicia Ford posted a statement on Facebook saying the decision to resign was "difficult." https://t.co/MtmVGUWpb4
— FOX 5 DC (@fox5dc) November 2, 2024
In response to the crisis, Public Information Officer Terryl Allen sought to reassure the public that measures were being implemented to maintain order and safety.
Allen stated, “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. Considering this information, we were able to quickly secure an interim Chief of Police effective immediately, so the City of Geary is being taken care of without delay.”
JJ Stitt has since been appointed as the interim police chief, marking the third leadership change in just over a year. Stitt, who was initially hired as a consultant to audit the police department, claims he was not fully aware of the reasons behind the mass resignations but assured residents it would be “business as usual.” However, some community members have expressed skepticism about Stitt’s dual role as auditor and interim chief.
To fill the immediate law enforcement void, the Blaine County and Canadian County Sheriff’s Offices are providing assistance to Geary during this transition period. Despite the resignations, emergency 911 services remain operational, and officers will be dispatched as needed to respond to calls for service.
The exact reasons for the mass resignation remain unclear, with various theories circulating among locals.
Former Police Chief Alicia Ford hinted at potential issues with the city council, stating, “This choice was very difficult to make, but it was the right decision for me and the other officers. I have watched the officers serve this community selflessly, working hard to protect and provide the best quality of service possible. They have been an amazing team that was always willing to sacrifice for this community.”
“If this isn’t an emergency then what is?” a resident named Tatum Wigington said.
Ford encouraged community involvement in city council meetings to effect change, stating, “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.” This call to action has resonated with many residents who are now demanding a resolution to the issues and emphasizing the need for leadership accountability.
The resignations of City Council members Rocky Coleman and Kristy Miller have further fueled suspicions of internal conflicts. Coleman cited misalignment with the city’s direction and personal agendas affecting the city, while Miller expressed her belief that the mayor was not acting in the city’s best interest.
As the community grapples with this unprecedented situation, many are left wondering about the future of their town. One resident summed up the sentiment, saying, “We don’t have much of a city anymore.” The lack of official explanation from town leadership has only intensified the calls for transparency and accountability.
While the town faces these challenges, it is also dealing with power restoration issues following a severe thunderstorm, adding to the sense of instability. As Geary works to rebuild its police force and restore faith in local government, the eyes of the nation are on this small Oklahoma town, watching to see how it navigates this crisis and emerges on the other side.
