SCOTT CITY OFFICER FIRED, TWO OTHERS RESIGN

SCOTT CITY -- Lt. Bobby Wooten of the Scott City Police Department was fired Tuesday night, prompting the resignation of two other officers.

Wooten, a veteran officer with the department, could not be reached for comment Wednesday. Scott City Police Chief Rob Elledge confirmed that Wooten was "terminated," but would not give a reason.

Another source said Wooten resigned before he could be fired.

But Wooten's parting prompted the resignation of officers Eric Schafer and John Blakeley. Before Tuesday's resignations, Scott City had a force of seven full-time, commissioned police officers and four reserve officers.

Elledge would offer no explanation for the officers' move, but said the citizens of Scott City have nothing to worry about.

"We still have six officers counting the reserves," said Elledge. "We'll work with what we've got.

"We may not be as fast as what we were before, but we are out there working," he added. "We'll take care of the people of Scott City."

Elledge submitted his letter of resignation to the Scott City Council in March, but remains with the department until another chief can be hired. The position has not yet been filled.

The chief said he has not ruled out staying with the department after his replacement arrives.

The city's police personnel board makes hiring recommendations to the council after reviewing applications. The board meets once a month.