Due to personnel matters that are subject to confidentiality, Morenci City Council voted at their special meeting on September 14 to remove Officer Don Thompson from his position as Chief of Police.
With the presence of legal counsel, City Council deliberated for nearly three hours during the closed session that Officer Thompson requested. Following closed session, a motion was made and supported to demote Officer Thompson to road patrol, maintain his seniority with the City of Morenci, and complete human resource and communication training. The motion was amended to include Officer Thompson releasing the City of Morenci from any liability per the advice of both parties’ legal counsel. The amended motion passed 6-1. Meeting minutes will be posted to the website when they are completed. Deputy Chief Michael Creswell has been appointed to serve as interim Chief of Police moving forward.