The small Texan community of Hawkins faced a significant upheaval as its City Council, in a narrow 3-2 decision, ousted the last standing member of its police force. Lieutenant Eric Tuma was relieved from his duties amidst accusations of "dereliction of sworn duties" and "abandonment of post." This drastic action occurred during a heated meeting on Monday night and follows a period of instability within the municipality's law enforcement agency.
The city's Mayor Deborah Lynn Rushing, who was recently arrested on charges of tampering with government records, lauded the council's decision. Mayor Rushing, having faced legal scrutiny for secretly recording conversations with city officials, expressed enthusiasm for establishing new policies in alignment with Texas state law. "We are excited to write policies and pass policies that follow the law of the state of Texas and that everyone has to go by that law," Rushing remarked post-vote, signaling a desire to reform local governance.
The termination of Tuma marks the culmination of a series of dismissals and resignations that began in February when Mayor Rushing, in an assertive move, revoked three officer badges over alleged improper hiring processes. The mayor's attempt to disband the police department entirely in January was thwarted by a council vote, but the subsequent reduction in personnel led to Tuma being the sole officer left.
Controversy has marred the Hawkins Police Department since Rushing's arrest in May for illegally recording conversations during a city council candidate event. Court documents indicate that she shared these recordings with Matthew Todd Eddington, a resident with a history of derogatory social media behavior towards council members. Both Rushing and Eddington are under Texas Rangers investigation.
The council's decision to fire Tuma, who had recently taken approved leave for a family emergency, has sparked criticism and concern. Councilmember Eric Maloy, who opposed the termination, highlighted the lack of documentation to justify the action and the troubling absence of local law enforcement protection.
Residents of Hawkins are alarmed by the council's decision, with some, like Amy Pack, openly protesting the vote. The situation has led to a sense of urgency among community members, with many contemplating self-protection measures. "I'm not gonna call 911, I'm gonna protect my home and take matters into my own hands," Pack declared, underlining the residents' distrust in emergency services amidst the current crisis.
The dismissal of Hawkins' last police officer highlights deep-seated issues within the town's governance and law enforcement, raising questions about accountability, public safety, and the future stability of the community.
