Controversy Surrounds Barrackville Police Department Over Alleged Break-In

Recent events in Barrackville, West Virginia have sparked controversy regarding the town’s police department. Allegations have surfaced about a break-in in the department’s evidence room, prompting officials to place the entire department under review.

On July 7, the Barrackville Police Department made an announcement via Facebook, claiming that the entire department had been relieved of duty by city officials. The post expressed gratitude for the community’s support throughout their service.

Former Police Chief Zachary Freeburn resigned abruptly, and shortly thereafter, claims arose regarding a supposed mass firing. According to Barrackville’s general counsel, John Funkhouser, these claims are false. Instead, two officers were placed on temporary leave to facilitate an investigation into the alleged evidence room break-in.

“Effective immediately, the entire Barrackville Police Department has been relieved of duty by the Mayor and City Council,” stated the department’s Facebook post.

Funkhouser explained that Chief Freeburn had informed a council member about an order from the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office to clean out the evidence locker. The locker reportedly contained confiscated firearms and $30 in abandoned cash. Freeburn resigned the following day.

Officer David Hunt reached out to the mayor with an “action plan,” but due to missing records and documentation, he and Officer Ethan Darden were placed on temporary leave. This measure provides the town’s council with time to review relevant information about department operations.

Concerns arose when it appeared that individuals could remotely access surveillance cameras, including those in the evidence room. Council members found a paper listing safe combinations, yet discovered the safe empty when they opened it. Additionally, a police cruiser was found unsecured, with an unsecured rifle inside. Officers were subsequently placed on leave.

Following these events, Hunt sought “whistleblower” status, calling for the West Virginia State Police to investigate the alleged break-in. After discussions with state police, the department’s clerk resigned.

Funkhouser stressed the town’s commitment to transparency and accountability. “The assertion that the entire police staff has been fired is entirely inaccurate,” he stated, emphasizing oversight as necessary and in line with regulation compliance.

Officer Hunt offered a different account, claiming he discovered unauthorized entry into the evidence room. After alleging misconduct by town officials, he and another officer were terminated from their roles.

While the council meeting scheduled for July 7 was canceled, Marion County Sheriff’s Office agreed to handle calls in Barrackville during this period. Fox News has reached out to the Barrackville Police Department for further comments.