Former acting King City Police Chief Bruce Miller resigns
As the search for a new police chief in King City continues, we now know that another police officer is off the force. The former acting chief, Bruce Miller, has turned in his resignation according to Mayor Robert Cullen. Miller is accused of being a part of the towing scheme last year and the case against him is still pending.
This was announced Thursday, the same day the Chamber of Commerce held its annual State of the City. City leaders, business owners and law enforcement all gathered to hear about the future of King City.
Ronald Childers moved to King City five years ago. He’s opening a new restaurant and his wife works at Mee Memorial Hospital. Needless to say, they are invested in the community. Even so, Childers said he stands by the Police Department.
“Everyone knows were going through changes right now,” said Childers.
Mayor Robert Cullen said it’s important to support the officers still working in the community. But Cullen said still the future of the police department is unknown.
While the search is underway, the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office still patrols King City overnight. At 6 p.m. King City police officers go home.
“We’re also awaiting a proposal from the Sheriff’s Office for expanding their coverage in King City,” said Cullen.
News Channel 5 asked the mayor if that meant the Sheriff’s Office taking over altogether. Cullen replied, “All options are on the table now that Sheriff (Steve)Bernal has been sworn in. We are awaiting a proposal from him, that proposal should contain various options.”
Another option is to bring in Greenfield Police Chief Adele Frese to manage the department. Frese told News Channel 5 she’s willing to help out the King City Police Department.
With all this uncertainty some residents like Ronald Childers said they are optimistic.
“I would like to see the city hire more police officers. I know they have financial constraints right now, but they are doing everything they can, I think,” said Childers.
In the meantime, the city is still looking at applicants for a new chief. On Monday, Jan. 19th, city leaders will be holding a public forum titled “The Future of the Police Department.” It will be at City Hall at 6 p.m. and the public is encouraged to attend.
