Officials in Barrackville, West Virginia, are disputing claims by the town’s police department about a mass firing. The department had announced on July 7 that every officer was dismissed, following allegations of a break-in at the evidence room.
The Barrackville Police Department stated, ‘Effective immediately, the entire Barrackville Police Department has been relieved of duty by the Mayor and City Council.’ They expressed gratitude to the community for their support during their service.
This announcement followed the immediate resignation of former Police Chief Zachary Freeburn. However, John Funkhouser, the town’s general counsel, countered the claim. Funkhouser labeled it ‘entirely inaccurate,’ emphasizing that only two officers were placed on temporary leave pending an internal investigation.
According to Funkhouser, an alleged break-in at the evidence room triggered the review. He detailed that Chief Freeburn informed council member Alex Neville about ordering the evidence locker cleared at the request of the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, leaving behind confiscated firearms and $30 cash. This disclosure was followed by Freeburn’s resignation.
Officer David Hunt communicated with Mayor Thomas Straight about plans for the department’s future. Due to concerns over record-keeping and documentation, the town council placed Hunt and Officer Ethan Darden on inactive status. This move allowed time to assess all operations of the police department.
Mayor Straight voiced worries over unauthorized access to surveillance cameras, especially those monitoring the evidence room. Upon investigating, council members discovered a list of safe combinations, finding no contents inside. Additionally, they found one police vehicle unlocked and another with an unsecured rifle.
Hunt, seeking to probe the break-in, claimed ‘whistleblower’ status and called for West Virginia State Police assistance. Shortly after, the department’s clerk resigned, adding another layer to the unfolding situation.
Funkhouser reiterated the inaccuracies around the firing claims. He highlighted the town’s dedication to transparency and responsibility in ensuring the police department’s adherence to regulations.
Officer Hunt’s account varied, suggesting town officials accessed the evidence room before his arrival on July 7. This disagreement led to the officers, who composed the entire force, being dismissed. Meanwhile, Marion County Sheriff Roger Cunningham confirmed their agency would respond to calls in Barrackville.
The Barrackville Town Council canceled a scheduled July 7 meeting due to insufficient information. The town remains in communication with residents, committed to resolving the ongoing situation.