The entire police department resignation after a new Black town manager is hired.
A mass resignation came Friday after Justine Jones was hired in the town of Kenly, NC. Police Chief Josh Gibson wrote a letter announcing his departure and described the workplace as a “hostile” environment.
Gibson wrote:
In our 21 years at the Kenly Police Department, we’ve seen ups and downs. But, especially over the past 3 years, we have made significant progress, which we hope to continue. However, due to the current harsh working environment in Kenly Town, I do not believe progress is possible.
Other letters from the officers were also made public. Officer GW Strong also expressed his feelings and said he felt “unsafe.”
I take this action with a heavy heart. I have worked for the town since 2004 and fully look forward to finishing my law enforcement career in Kenly Town. Unfortunately, there were decisions being made that jeopardized my safety and made me question what the future holds for a Kenly Sheriff.
The employee in charge of the city’s water and electricity service has also written his resignation. Christy Thomas also said that the work environment was “hostile”.
I have really enjoyed working for The Town for the past four years. Due to the current situation and recent work stress, my main concern is my health, and right now I need to focus on my health. The work area is very uncomfortable and I wouldn’t let myself be around that kind of atmosphere.
Jones was hired last month, and in a press release issued by the city of Kenly, the town manager was deemed “gradually responsible.” She has also served various government positions in other states.
Jones has dedicated her career to public service for the past 16 years, during which she has worked in positions of gradual responsibility with local governments in Minnesota, Virginia, South Carolina and North Carolina, ‘ the town wrote in the statement. “She began her city career as Executive Assistant to the City Manager and National Urban Member in Norfolk City, Virginia.
Roomies, what do you guys think of this?
