August 21, 2024
Watonga is in turmoil after both the mayor and vice mayor resigned over the weekend, leaving the city without its top two leaders. Their resignations, announced on Friday during a special meeting intended to demote the city manager, follow recent controversies involving the Watonga Police Department.
The controversy includes two significant use-of-force incidents. In one case, John Sexton alleged his rights were violated by police while walking with his son on July 4. Though the Blaine County District Attorney’s Office did not press charges, the officer involved is under review. In another incident from June 2, the same officer reportedly punched a child with autism three times while trying to de-escalate a situation, resulting in bruises. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) is currently reviewing this case.
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