The Village of West Union finds itself without a police chief after Interim Chief Shawn Cooley unexpectedly resigned during a village council meeting last month. Cooley, who had taken over as interim chief following the resignation of former Chief Ryan Myers, walked out of the meeting after expressing frustration over budget limitations and compensation discussions.
The meeting became tense when Cooley voiced grievances about the village’s financial offer, despite the council’s explanation that the budget was constrained. “I was handed a Police Department that was absolutely in shambles,” Cooley stated, defending his efforts to improve the department’s operations. However, when council member Jimmy Nichols clarified that the limited offer was due to budget constraints, Cooley continued to criticize the council’s handling of the situation.
Cooley was being compensated $30 per hour as Interim Chief, but was made aware that the hourly rate was temporary given his interim status.
“Good luck on finding somebody to come and help you because I worked my ass off trying to get your department back up where it should be and apparently it is not appreciated, so,” said Cooley. His demeanor and foul language didn’t sit well with members of Council.
The interim chief’s abrupt resignation came after council members attempted to discuss the department’s recent activities, including ticket revenue and daily operations. Cooley acknowledged the village’s budget limitations but insisted that the offer was inadequate and walked out. Despite claims of departmental progress, he chose to resign rather than continue discussions with the council, creating an unexpected leadership vacancy.
The Village does currently have active officers that are handling calls and patrolling the village. The council now faces the task of appointing a new chief for the second time this year, as Cooley’s resignation has created uncertainty for the community, leaving the village to navigate the consequences of his decision.
