The Pawhuska, Oklahoma police Department remains embroiled in a scandal involving the termination of its chief of police, Lorrie Hennesy, and officer Warren Anthoney "A.T." Towers.
The terminations followed allegations of misconduct, including inappropriate handling of firearms and other unethical behaviors. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation has launched an inquiry into the matter.
The scandal began when Pawhuska City Manager Jerry Eubanks initiated an internal investigation into the police department. The investigation, conducted by a private contractor named J.J. Stitt, revealed that Hennesy and Towers had allegedly mishandled firearms during two incidents involving Eubanks
.The memo summarizing the investigation also mentioned other misconduct by unnamed officers, such as dry firing TASERs at each other for amusement and sleeping on the job.
Eubanks, who has a criminal history including a conviction for distribution of methamphetamine and unlawful possession of an assault rifle, terminated Hennesy and Towers based on the findings of the internal investigation.
Hennesy's legal team has challenged the legitimacy of the investigation and her dismissal, while Towers has remained silent on the matter.
The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) has launched an investigation at the request of Osage County District Attorney Mike Fisher. The OSBI will report its findings to Fisher, but the timeline for the investigation remains unclear.
Hennesy's lawyers have stated that they believe she has not committed any wrongdoing and are urging city leaders to cooperate with the OSBI.
As of December 2024, the OSBI has not yet reported its findings to the Osage County District Attorney, Mike Fisher. The community and those involved are awaiting the results of the investigation to see what actions will be taken next.
