Dunbar Police chief resigns after 3 years on force for 'personal reasons'

Oxley, who Elliott said has served as chief since May 2021, said in the post: “It is with profound sorrow that I announce my decision to step down as Chief of the Dunbar Police Department. This community, this department — both have been more than just my place of work; they have been my home, my family, and my purpose for so many years.”

“Leaving is not a decision I’ve taken lightly,” the post continued. “My heart is heavy, knowing that I won’t be there every day, standing shoulder to shoulder with the brave men and women who make this department what it is. But I am confident that this decision, difficult as it is, is the right one for me at this time.”

Barker said Oxley’s resignation “had nothing to do” with recent claims of violence by members of the department, including lawsuits filed against the department for alleged excessive use of force and an incident in June where a Dunbar Police officer was charged with domestic battery.

At the time, Oxley said, “For these things to happen, there was something broken in the department,” referring to the claims of violence against his officers.

On Monday, Elliott said there could be a connection.

“I’m in the position where I wanted some answers [to the excessive force claims],” Elliott said. “Chief Oxley may have done everything 100% correct. But I could not get the answers I needed.” But Elliott said, “It was [Oxley’s] decision to resign.”

Oxley could not be reached for comment. Elliott said Oxley has taken a job with Kanawha County Schools as a school resource officer. Before leading the Dunbar Police Department, which serves about 7,500 residents, Oxley served with the Nitro Police Department, including a stint as chief.

What’s next

Elliott said there are nine officers working in the department, with two on leave. He said there should be a full force of 15 officers and the chief.

The hiring process will begin immediately.

“We’ll accept resumes,” Elliott said. “We’re not going to go out and hire the first guy who meets qualifications. You have to be a certified officer to be chief of police.”

Elliott said he has the final say, but hiring the next chief will be a collaborative process with the Dunbar City Council.

“[The] City [C]ouncil and myself will decide if they pass the muster,” he said. “Chief Oxley was out here going to every function and seeing people,” in the community.

Elliott said he wants those types of community-oriented qualities in his next chief.

“They’re going to be big shoes to fill,” he said.