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Last updated on Monday, January 14, 2013
(ELNORA) - The Town of Elnora is looking into hiring an interim town marshal to replace Ron Hooker, who was fired.
The Washington Times-Herald reports that Hooker and four of his reserve officers were fired last week during a special Elnora Town Council meeting.
Hooker says there was no reason given for his dismissal, however Town Council President James Mathies disagreed. He says a termination letter, with four reasons for the action, was given to Hooker on the day he was fired.
In a news release provided by Elnora Clerk/Treasurer Judith Stedman, four charges were listed in Hooker's termination letter. The charges include: neglect of duty, neglect or disobedience of orders, conduct injurious to the public peace or welfare and conduct unbecoming an officer. No evidence was attached or discussed in the release.
Hooker does have an appeal process and says he plans to get his job back. He would make no other comment until he talks to his attorney. Mathies would not comment on the case because it is in the appeal process. The appeal is set for Jan. 28 in an executive session.
In the meantime, Sheriff Jerry Harbstreit of the Daviess County Sheriff's Department has his deputies helping with law enforcement in Elnora. Harbstreit says his deputies are making extra patrols around the town and keep a watchful eye out.
Mathies says discussion will begin during the council's regular meeting Monday on appointing an interim town marshal. He says there are a few who have expressed interest in the position.
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