Toni Hopper
MARLOW — Former Duncan Police Lt. Jimmy D. Williams was appointed acting chief of police for the Marlow Police Department, Monday, said City Administrator Janice Cain.
Williams began his temporary duties Tuesday, he said. Because of regulations, Williams had to retire from the Duncan police force about two weeks ago.
“I thoroughly enjoyed my years of service with Duncan Police Department. I greatly enjoyed serving the citizens of Duncan and will miss that,” he said. Retirement requirements prevent Williams from serving in general law enforcement, but not as a chief. Williams’ intention is to stay in law enforcement. He said he offered his assistance to Marlow.
“In order to properly staff and maintain the supervisory needs for the Marlow Police Department, I have appointed Jimmy Williams as acting chief of police,” Cain said.
“He is on temporary assignment with us to assist the City of Marlow in law enforcement and administration.”
Cain said Williams will supervise the department and can make day to day decisions only.
“He is not involved in any other things we are doing,” she said.
Marlow Chief Bob Hill and officers Randy Johnson and Rodney Richards continue to be on administrative leave with pay, Cain said. They were placed on leave Oct. 16.
An investigation into allegations of misconduct have been made against the three officers by Stephens County District Attorney Bret Burns.
The City of Marlow is conducting an internal investigation and Oklahoma Bureau of Investigations is conducting a criminal investigation.
Meanwhile, Williams said is he thankful to be given the opportunity to assist Marlow in the law enforcement field.
Cain said she is glad to have Williams take over, even if temporarily, for the police department.
“That need needs to be done by someone who is trained in law enforcement,” she said.
Williams does have Council on Law Enforcement and Education Training certification and more than 25 years experience in law enforcement.
“This is where I was born, at Talley-Walker Hospital. I went to school here, graduated and have a big place in my heart for Marlow.”
“I look forward to moving on in my law enforcement career,” Williams said.
— Toni Hopper is a reporter for The Duncan Banner. She can be reached at 580-255-5354, Ext. 132 or by e-mail at: toni.hopper@duncanbanner.com.
