By Jennifer “Jade” Jones | The Desert Freedom Press
At Tuesday morning’s regular meeting of the Quartzsite Town Council, sitting members convened in executive session to discuss the contract of controversial Police Chief Jeff Gilbert. They reconvened and voted to terminate his contract without cause and pay the provisions of his severance.
A reported buy-out of $116,000. Vice Mayor Jewitt abstained from the vote because his stepson, Tim Ryder, is the paid assistant to Chief Gilbert. Remaining council members voted unanimously.
No mention was made of who will lead the department as interim chief, or to begin advertising for a replacement, leaving many wondering whether council members thought the decision through.
It is anticipated the Arizona Department of Public Safety might send someone, and Sheriff John Drum appears willing to negotiate an intergovernmental agreement to take over services.
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