A village of around 450 people finds itself divided over the conduct of its police chief.
Ferrelview Police Chief Daniel Clayton has served as chief for less than a year, but a group of citizens are calling on him to be fired.
According to attorney Dennis Rowland, 20 to 25 people have come forward with complaints about Clayton. Rowland said many of the complaints deal with Clayton being “too strict,” ticketing for “minor issues” and harassing drivers on some occasions. Rowland said he was first introduced to the case when his son was pulled over in Ferrelview.
“He (Rowland’s son) took a right turn on a street. Mr. Clayton followed him the entire length of town before he stopped him,” Rowland explained.
He said after his son was pulled over, he informed Clayton that he was a process server. As part of the job, his son is able to carry a concealed firearm. After telling Clayton about the gun, Rowland said his son was asked to get out of his car. His son reported that Clayton then handcuffed him and put the loaded gun on the roof of the car. Rowland’s son was later ticketed for not using a turn signal before Clayton shouted at him regarding the incident, according to Rowland.
The incident involving Rowland’s son is one of a number of incidents that are now being focused on as calls grow for Clayton to be fired.
“I have a lot of respect for law enforcement,” Rowland said. “But I don't have respect for law abuse."
Rowland explained that he believes Clayton is on a “power trip” and is using “excessive force” in his position.
“He's got a badge, a gun, and he's a sizable fellow. He's going to use it,” Rowland said. “It's just personal. It ticks me off that people try to abuse their authority."
Rowland added that he is helping to gather to complaints with one goal in mind.
“I want him fired. I want his commission revoked,” Rowland said.
Other residents have a different opinion. Several neighbors on Thursday spoke of how they believe Clayton helps keep the area safe.
“Knowing that Officer Clayton is on duty, I can sleep better at night," said Brooks Moseley, who has lived in Ferrelview for 12 years.
Moseley said that during his time in the area, drugs and gangs have been an issue. He even has security cameras around his home to stay safe. However, Moseley said that ever since Clayton has been police chief, he believes crime has gone down.
“We had all sorts of issues,” Moseley said. “Ever since [Clayton] has been here, it’s all been on its way out."
The debate over Clayton is far from over. A meeting is happening at Ferrelview City Hall on June 14 to discuss the complaints.
Moseley said he’s worried about what will happen if Clayton is removed from his post.
“I would not sleep as well,” he said. “I would be constantly worried. My stress level would triple if we went back to anything like it was."
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Tom Dempsey can be reached at Tom.Dempsey@KSHB.com.
