Residents of Geary are experiencing uncertainty following the mass resignation of the entire police force and two city council members. Official explanations for the sudden departures are limited, and locals are expressing concern about the future stability of their community. According to FOX 25, an unnamed resident conveyed the unease felt by many: "A city without its police force is a danger to the citizens of the town." The former police chief, Alicia Ford, in a departure statement on the department's Facebook page, implied unrest within the local government and encouraged townspeople to become more involved.
The city moved quickly to secure an interim police chief, JJ, who, although reportedly working initially as a consultant, was placed into the role amid a cloud of controversy. This information came to light in an interview with KOCO 5, where a resident, Tatum Wigington, noted, "The same person who is the acting interim chief was hired by the city council to do an audit on the police department and now he is the interim chief. That seems a little suspicious."
Alongside the police resignations, city council members Rocky Coleman and Kristy Miller also stepped down. Coleman, in a letter, suggested a disconnect between his values and the city's direction, as reported by FOX 25.
Miller expressed her own frustrations, citing a belief that the mayor's actions were not in the best interest of Geary. The subtle yet strong undercurrent of dissatisfaction indicates that there may be deeper issues at play beyond personnel changes.
The interim chief, faced with a diminished force, acknowledges that they will need to immediately begin looking to replenish the ranks. JJ emphasized that, despite the upheaval, the city will continue to function, asserting to FOX 25, "It's not doomsday here. We're taking care of business. It's business as usual."
Meanwhile, residents like Sonja Luquette voice worries to KOCO 5 about the potential for further municipal deterioration: "We need to figure out what the problem is and we need to fix it. It needs to be fixed and it needs to start at the top."
During this turbulence, the city confirmed that emergency services remain operational. Assistance from neighboring Blaine County and Canadian County sheriff's offices ensures that Geary residents can still call 911 in emergencies. This temporary arrangement was outlined in a statement from the City of Geary, as obtained by KFOR, ensuring that the city "is being taken care of without delay" despite these unexpected challenges.
