Webster Council Responds To Report About Former Marshal's Resignation

NORTH WEBSTER - Town officials and employees responded Monday to a published report regarding the resignation of former town marshal Jerry Craig nearly two years ago.

Council president Kay Andrews, clerk Peg Lawrance, town marshal Greg Church, deputies Darrell Sopher and Candice Smythe and town attorney Jack Birch fielded questions and comments from citizens. Five of those attending are candidates for three town council seats and the clerk-treasurer's office.

In a July 30 newspaper report titled "Former town marshal breaks his silence," Craig is quoted as saying he wanted the citizens to know "exactly what happened to him."

"Because of the innuendo-laden article," said Andrews, "this meeting has been called to discuss the charges. It was never our intent to disparage Jerry Craig's reputation."

Documents detailing Craig's resignation were presented, which included general notes, details of a mid-year review in 2001 and a list detailing neglect of duty occurrences.

The packet also included a resolution dated Sept, 5, 2001, removing Craig from his office as marshal and terminating his employment as a police officer Sept. 11; Craig's Sept. 6, 2001, letter of resignation; and documents from the Department of Workforce Development.

A total of 21 pages were offered to the 36 people in attendance.

Birch said Craig had five days to request a hearing regarding his employment; instead, he resigned.

"Jerry underwent a big change in attitude from 1997 to 2001," said deputy Darrell Sopher. "There was a 180-degree change in the way he treated officers. He was the best man at my wedding. I considered him my best friend."

Smythe concurred with Sopher's observation.

Sopher said at the time, he was actively seeking employment elsewhere.

"We were told, for years, we couldn't talk to council members. We couldn't talk to Peg. Finally, we three collectively went to the council," Sopher said.

Andrews said she hated to have Craig's situation aired publicly.

"How hurtful this is to Jerry and his wife," she said.