### Geary Police Department and Council Members Resign En Masse

In a surprising turn of events, the entire police department of Geary, Oklahoma, consisting of the police chief and three officers, resigned alongside two city council members, leaving the town with minimal law enforcement and governance. Former Police Chief Alicia Ford expressed her regret over the decision, labeling it as difficult but necessary for herself and her fellow officers.

Ford communicated the decision via a social media post but offered no specific reasons for the collective resignation. Attempts to reach her for further comments have been unsuccessful. Mayor Waylan Upchego has also been unavailable for direct comments, with a representative declining to speak on the matter.

The town's administration quickly moved to address concerns by announcing that an interim police chief has been appointed and assistance will be provided by the Blaine and Canadian County sheriffs' offices. The city reassured residents that emergency services remain operational as usual and urged them to contact 911 in case of immediate needs.

In addition to the law enforcement resignations, City Council members Glen "Rocky" Coleman Jr. and Kristy Miller have stepped down, leaving the council with just one active member due to a prior vacancy. Coleman cited a misalignment of values with the city's direction and poor communication as contributing factors to his resignation. Miller has yet to provide further comments or explanations.

JJ Stitt, a veteran with 27 years in law enforcement, has been confirmed as the interim police chief. Stitt communicated his intentions to recruit new officers and leverage his extensive network to address the town's immediate law enforcement needs. Stitt has a background as a county deputy and involvement in a task force focused on internet crimes against children.

This wave of resignations follows a similar incident over a year ago in Goodhue, Minnesota, where the entire police department resigned due to insufficient pay. The recent developments in Geary have undoubtedly left the town in a state of flux but with ongoing efforts to stabilize its public services.