FILE — A pair of Glasgow police cars set parked at the scene of a shooting along Bryan Street on June 18, 2022.
By BRENNAN D. CRAIN, WCLU News
GLASGOW — The Glasgow City Council voted to approve a municipal order Monday evening appointing a former Glasgow police chief back to the post.
Guy Howie was re-hired as the latest chief of police. Mayor Henry Royse put forth the appointment, which was subject to the city council’s approval.
The vote carried with the exception of two votes. Councilman Terry Bunnell voted no to the measure, and Councilwoman Marna Kirkpatrick recused herself due to her husband’s assignment as a captain within the city’s police department.
“In my respect for the Glasgow Police Department, I cannot vote for this municipal order,” Bunnell said. “With the aim to move forward with the police department, the new direction, the new leadership – I think we as a city need to look outside.”
Bunnell sought the other councilmembers’ dissent to the measure to no avail. Members Patrick Gaunce and Joe Trigg made the necessary motions to secure the vote. No other discussion was held other than a question from Freddie Norris, which was to clarify that the appointment was not for an interim period.
Royse made clear that the position was not an interim designation. Howie is the newest chief and will serve in the capacity until he resigns or the city changes his employment status.
Chief Jennifer Arbogast announced in late February her intent to retire effective April 1. The decision was swift after a private discussion with the mayor and the city’s human resources overseer, Lance Crimmins. Arbogast said she feared further retaliation if she did not retire, according to a letter obtained by WCLU News.
Howie’s appointment comes at a time when Glasgow Police Department appears to have several internal affairs. A series of anonymous emails were submitted to the mayor and other top city officials in February, which detailed growing concerns with understaffing, favoritism and workplace stress and anxiety.
Howie previously served as police chief in Hopkinsville. He is also a veteran of the United States Air Force. He begins his duties on April 17.
