A Maryland town’s largely unexplained decision to suspend its entire police force has left residents shocked, skeptical and concerned.
Ridgeley, a small town on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, announced that it has suspended an officer from the Ridgeley Police Department and that other public safety agencies will fill the void. But the town’s residents are completely in the dark as to why it was shut down.
“What’s really concerning is that they haven’t communicated with us in an honest and open way,” said Laura Klein, a longtime Ridgely resident. “Please treat us with respect. We are adults, and we are thoughtful, rational adults who deserve to know the truth.”
“We were blindsided,” added Holly Justice, an esthetician who runs a spa in Ridgeley. “It makes you question the integrity of the people you’re supposed to protect and serve.”
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A sign stands outside the town government and police department on Friday, March 15, 2024, in Ridgely, Maryland. Ridgely officials announced last week that the entire police department had been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation by state prosecutors. (AP Photo/Lee Skene)
Officials posted on the city’s website last week that the town’s three-person committee has “suspended all members of the Ridgely Police Department” and that the state’s attorney’s office is investigating possible wrongdoing. Announced.
“This doesn’t make sense,” said Jenny Wu, a downtown Ridgely business owner since 1983. “Everyone is skeptical about what happened. We just want to know how and why it happened,” he said.
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The department’s website states that six police officers are employed to serve approximately 1,600 residents.
A Caroline County Sheriff’s Office vehicle is parked outside the town government and police building on Friday, March 15, 2024, in Ridgely, Maryland. Ridgely officials announced last week that the entire police department had been suspended pending the outcome of the state investigation. Prosecutor. They have made arrangements with the sheriff’s office to respond to calls for service in the meantime. (AP Photo/Lee Skene)
For now, Ridgeley is arranging for officers from the nearby Caroline County Sheriff’s Office to respond to emergency calls, city officials said.
Caroline County Sheriff David Baker said Maryland State Police will also assist.
Some residents are concerned that police officers from nearby towns will respond to service calls, slowing down response times. Some residents have suggested that a reduced law enforcement presence could make the area a target for potential criminals.
Central Avenue in downtown Ridgeley, Maryland, is deserted on Friday, March 15, 2024. Ridgely officials announced last week that the entire police department had been suspended pending the outcome of an investigation by state prosecutors. (AP Photo/Lee Skene)
Caroline County, which includes Ridgely, has had a notoriously low crime rate for decades.
There have been four homicides reported in the county since 2000, according to federal crime data.
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Most police services involve minor public safety issues such as loss or theft of property. Other services include participating in community events and supporting local businesses. Other posts include information about lost keys, credit cards, bicycles and other items recovered by officers around the city.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
