Barrackville Council Relieves Entire Police Department Effective Immediately
PUBLISHED Jul 7, 2026, 2:30 PM ET
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BARRACKVILLE, W.Va. The mayor and town council have relieved the entire Barrackville Police Department of duty, the department said in a social media post Tuesday. The statement said the action was taken by the mayor and council and confirmed that all members of the local force were removed from their duties effective immediately. Town officials were not available for comment, and the statement did not provide further details about the reason for the action or any immediate replacements or interim arrangements. Members of the police department issued a separate message expressing gratitude to the community: "We are sincerely grateful for the support, trust, and encouragement shown to us by the Barrackville community, throughout our service," the post said. The officers described it as an honor and privilege to serve and protect the town, thanked residents for the opportunity to serve, and wished the community continued safety and the very best in the future. No other information has been released.
By Michael Grant | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Chief Zachary Freeburn resigns amid disputes with the town council (less than a week before).
- The Barrackville Police Department posts a social media statement announcing all members relieved of duty.
- Town officials confirm the action was taken by the mayor and town/city council.
- Reporters attempt to contact city officials but receive no immediate reply.
- The Barrackville Town Council schedules a meeting for Tuesday night at 7 p.m. to address next steps.
News Intelligence
- The sudden dismissal of an entire police department can impact community safety. Without a local police force, response times to emergencies may increase. Keep an eye on updates from town officials about interim arrangements. It's a good time to remind your family about basic safety measures at home and in public.
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The Barrackville mayor and town council exercised municipal authority to relieve the department, which may allow them to reorganize local public safety administration and pursue alternative policing arrangements or contract services.
All members of the Barrackville Police Department were relieved of duty immediately, resulting in job loss for officers and potential short-term gaps in local law enforcement coverage for residents.
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Barrackville Council Relieves Entire Police Department Effective Immediately
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