The mayor of Cohutta, a small town in Georgia, has dismissed the entire police department following a dispute involving his wife. The officers had reportedly posted offensive comments on social media about Pam Shinnick, the mayor's wife, who previously worked for the city council. Mayor Ron Shinnick described the move as a reshuffling, likening it to changing a coach in college football.
Mayor's Explanation
“It’s a guy thing. You know, occasionally, college football programs, you have to change the coach, and some people like it, some don’t. And that’s just kind of the way it happens sometimes, you know?” the mayor said during a press conference.
Background of the Dispute
Cohutta, with a population of around 1,000, faced internal tensions. According to WDEF, officers had issues with Pam Shinnick continuing to work for the city council even after her termination due to allegations of creating toxicity. Following these allegations, Mayor Shinnick and town attorney Brian Rayburn held a press conference where all parties agreed to resolve the matter through open dialogue and mediation.
Termination Notice
Despite the resolution, a notice was posted on the Cohutta Police Department's door on Wednesday stating: “The PD has been dissolved, and all personnel have been terminated.” Sheriff's deputies are expected to take over law enforcement services for the city. “They’ll get a paycheck. We’re not that way, and I appreciate their service, okay? It is time for a change,” Mayor Shinnick said after the firings.
Former Officers' Response
Former officers have stated they will not return department equipment until proper procedures are followed. One officer explained: “We have to return all equipment, and as of right now, there is no one here that is a legal town employee to sign off that they’re receiving this equipment. It is a felony if a gun or something like that comes up missing. We will not turn that over to anyone. It will remain in our possession until such time someone can be present to take it.”
