Ackerman faces a law enforcement crisis after most police officers quit following a leadership dispute. The town council attempted to restore Martha Caradine as police chief. Mayor Lauren Carson blocked this decision through her veto power. Caradine received a demotion to patrol officer instead. The council lacked sufficient votes to reverse the mayor's action.
Officers departed en masse after the September 11 political confrontation. Caradine and one colleague represent the department's remaining staff. The second officer plans to leave within two weeks. Choctaw County Sheriff deputies have assumed policing responsibilities for the community. Caradine had led the department since September 2024 before losing her position.
Carson actively recruits replacement officers to rebuild the force. The county sheriff will maintain security during this staffing transition. Ackerman must identify a new police chief while addressing the personnel shortage. Public safety continues under temporary county supervision until local officers return.
Officers departed en masse after the September 11 political confrontation. Caradine and one colleague represent the department's remaining staff. The second officer plans to leave within two weeks. Choctaw County Sheriff deputies have assumed policing responsibilities for the community. Caradine had led the department since September 2024 before losing her position.
Carson actively recruits replacement officers to rebuild the force. The county sheriff will maintain security during this staffing transition. Ackerman must identify a new police chief while addressing the personnel shortage. Public safety continues under temporary county supervision until local officers return.
