Cohutta Police Department Dissolved Amid Ongoing Dispute; Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office Takes Over Coverage

COHUTTA, Ga. — The town of Cohutta is facing growing controversy after Mayor Ron Shinnick dissolved the Cohutta Police Department and terminated all department employees amid an ongoing dispute involving town leadership and former staff members.

According to multiple reports, the shutdown affected the town’s entire police force, including Police Chief Greg Fowler and several officers and staff members.

The decision comes after weeks of tension surrounding former town clerk Pam Shinnick, the mayor’s wife, who had previously been terminated from her position. Officers had reportedly raised concerns over her continued access to town systems and sensitive municipal information following her dismissal.

Former officers have alleged the move was retaliatory after concerns were brought forward regarding town operations and internal transparency. Former Sgt. Jeremy May publicly claimed the department’s termination was tied to what he described as a “personal vendetta.”

The closure followed a recent public appearance by Mayor Shinnick and Chief Fowler in which both stated that issues within the department and town government had been resolved through mediation involving the town attorney.

Despite those statements, the department was dissolved only days later.

In response to the shutdown, the Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office announced it would immediately assume law enforcement responsibilities within the town of Cohutta to ensure continued public safety coverage for residents.

Sheriff Darren Pierce said county deputies would continue responding to calls and providing law enforcement services without interruption.

The abrupt closure of the police department has sparked concern among some residents and former officers, particularly regarding emergency response times and the loss of a local police presence within the town.

Reports indicate town leaders were expected to hold a special meeting to discuss the future of the department, possible reinstatement efforts, and additional actions related to the ongoing dispute.

The situation remains ongoing.