The Abernathy City Council voted Thursday evening to terminate Police Chief Cameron Bowman. The city manager on Monday put the chief on unpaid leave.
Updated Link: Reason for Firing Police Chief Revealed by Open Records From Abernathy
The council and the city’s attorney did not provide specifics other than to say the termination was “for cause, violation of policy.” The vote was unanimous.
“I think any termination is unpleasant, and usually isn’t expected,” Abernathy City Attorney Todd Hurd said.
They said a situation involving the chief was brought to the attention of the Hale County District Attorney and Texas Rangers, and proper documentation had been forwarded to both entities.
An interim chief, Luis Villarreal, was appointed. Villarreal was serving on the force as an officer, but had served in the past as the city’s Police Chief. Hurd said Villarreal was chosen for his “history” with the city.
“That is exactly what the council considered, making sure we had an interim Police Chief, and that the officers are being maintained in the normal course of their duties.”
There was no word on how long the hiring process would take for a new permanent chief.
EverythingLubbock.com made an open records request on Tuesday. As soon as the results of that open records request are available, an update will be provided.
