FERRELVIEW, Mo. — A state audit could begin this week after more than 60 Ferrelview, Missouri residents signed a petition asking for a review of finances in the area following a controversy with the police chief.
Ferrelview Police Chief Daniel Clayton has led the police department for the last two years but is now the only officer on the force following cutbacks.
While some have pointed to him for being tough on crime and helping to keep things safe, a group of neighbors have complained about Clayton allegedly being too strict, handing out too many tickets, and abusing his power.
Some point to the village getting extra revenue from speeding tickets and fines as a result of Clayton’s alleged policing and attitude.
Under state law, a local government can only generate 20% of its budget from fines and tickets.
However, Treasurer Mickey Vulgamott said the past Board of Trustees spent the money instead of reporting it to the state.
The village is now on the hook to pay back around $30,000.
To make up for the amount, the board has abolished the village court system and all but gotten rid of the police department.
Chief Clayton is the only officer remaining on the force and now maintains a part-time schedule.
Supporters of Chief Clayton have voiced plenty of criticism of the board for the cutbacks and its approach towards the chief.
Some claim Board Chairwoman Theresa Wilson has a vendetta against Clayton after he investigated her son in a rape case two years ago.
Village meetings with the board this summer have been met with passion from both sides of the issue.
On Monday, residents of the village voiced both support for the audit and opposition to the way things have been handled.
"Before this, it wasn't bad at all,” explained Linda McCaslin. "Now, it's just terrible.”
McCaslin has lived in Ferrelview for around 30 years and has seen ups and downs in the area.
She said after Chief Clayton took over, she has seen a noticeable change in safety.
"Drugs quit coming into town like they were,” she explained. “People weren't speeding all the time."
Others, however, hoped the state audit could bring about change in the neighborhood.
Resident Wesley Lowther said he has had issues with Chief Clayton in the past and he chose to sign the petition since it could help bring change.
Lowther told 41 Action News of times Clayton would allegedly harass drivers and keep a close eye on certain individuals.
"He's intimidating. He's aggressive. He's out of control,” Lowther explained. "I signed (the petition) because I felt like we need to get a change in here. We didn't need these kids being harassed all the time."
With state leaders expected to start work on the state audit this week, Lowther hoped the end result could bring the town back together.
"I'm hoping that they won't find too many discrepancies and I'm hoping we can get this thing resolved and get this town reunited again,” he explained.
The State of Missouri Auditor’s Office said staff will review Ferrelview spending in the weeks ahead.
The total audit is expected to be completed in several months.
