Officers with the Kimberling City Police have turned in their resignations; some cited pay, new opportunities or gave no reason at all.

Kimberling City Mayor Bob Fritz responded to KRZK’s request for comment. Reading from a press release, Fritz said the short notice was disappointing and that this was unexpected. He added that he spoke with Chief Craig Alexander for about 40 minutes or so. The statement as read by Fritz is below.

On August 23, 2021, Chief Craig Alexander turned in in his letter of resignation. The Mayor spoke with him and he said he is accepting another position because he needed change and he wanted to better himself.

On September 1, 2021. Officer Shaun McCafferty turned in his letter of resignation. His reason, "I have been offered an opportunity to better myself and my employment status."

On September 2, 2021, Office Rutger House turned in his letter of resignation. No reason was given for the resignation. We understand he is moving out of the state.

On September 7, 2021, Sergeant Aaron Hoeft turned in his letter of resignation. His reason, "unfortunately the inevitability of having no qualified officers at the current pay rate and no police clerk able to assist in the administration side of running this department, I feel it would be impossible to do the job at the best of my abilities."

On September 8, 2021, Officer Caleb McCarty turned in his letter of resignation. No reason was given for the resignation.

It is unfortunate these officers have decided to leave the city at this time. This was unexpected and the short notice is disappointing.

Our city has mutual aid agreements with the Stone County Sherriff's Department and the City of Branson West, and they will assist Kimberling City until the Police Department is restored to full capacity.

The Mayor and Board of Aldermen have given full approval to recruit a new Police Chief and supporting staff and they will be hired as soon as possible.

No further details can be discussed because these are personnel issues.