Embattled Town of Beloit Police Chief John Wilson has retired, effective immediately. The news couldn’t come soon enough for residents who despite the snow came out Monday night to air complaints about Wilson and the town board. Both parties face multiple lawsuits accusing the former chief of racism.
“How can we trust people to make good decisions when they have nothing but bad in their hearts,” one woman asked at the town board meeting.
Former officer Chris Luzinski filed a complaint in September. According to the complaint, he was demoted after talking to town officials about racist comments made by Wilson.
Luzinski on Monday night accused the board of “arrogantly” choosing to support the command staff rather than dealing with the problem. He said Wilson should have been fired rather than being allowed to resign.
That sentiment was echoed by more than one citizen in attendance.
“I’m disgusted with the leadership here,” said another resident.
Several noted the irony of discussing the matter on Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
A deposition video of Wilson recently surfaced on Youtube in which he admitted to calling employees the “n-word.”
AUDIO: Citizens comments (:47)
Beth Wheelock-WCLO