Residents want answers for firing

EIGHT MILE, Ala. (WALA) - Eight Mile residents got a chance to voice their opinion and ask some questions Friday, Dec.28, about the termination of Prichard Police Chief Jimmie Gardner.

A lot of concerned citizens showed up at the High Point Baptist Church for a community meeting.

Neighborhood Watch Chairman James Montgomery headed the meeting.

"People are concerned that the change could set all our efforts back," said Montgomery.

Many in the Eight Mile community were stunned when new Mayor Troy Ephriam fired Gardner last week.

Since, Ephriam was granted a temporary restraining order against Gardner.

District 1 City Councilman Lorenzo Martin did his best to answer the people’s questions but said the council was left in the dark for Ephriam's decision.

"When you all saw it on the news, I saw it on the news. When you all heard about it, I heard about it," said Martin.

Martin hopes to gain clarity in the coming week.

"I trust our mayor that we are going to get some explanation of why,” said Martin.

Like many Eight Mile residents, Peter Johnson is in support of Gardner.

"The man has done a good job as far as I can see. This place is full of crime, and he's Johnny on the spot whenever you need him,” said Johnson.

Many residents are not just concerned with the chief being fired, but also how he was fired.

They hope to get some answers soon.

A hearing scheduled for Saturday, January 5 will determine whether the termination was lawful.