Geary, Oklahoma, police department resigns over unmet needs and budget cuts

The entire Geary, Oklahoma, Police Department, including Chief Alicia Ford, resigned on October 31 due to unmet needs and budget cuts. Ford cited a lack of support from city leaders, which led to staffing shortages and increased workloads for officers. Following the police department's resignation, city council members Rocky Coleman and Kristy Miller also stepped down, along with Mayor Waylan Upchego. Coleman expressed concerns about the city's direction and the need for better communication and transparency. An interim chief has taken over the Geary Police Department, and residents can still make 911 calls. Ford has accepted a new position with the Blaine County Sheriff's Office.