Former DPS director 'shocked and confused' by decision

SIKESTON — In a move he called “shocking,” Sikeston DPS Director Mike Williams was relieved of his duties Friday evening.

According to statement from Sikeston City Manager Jon Douglass, "Effective (Friday) Mike Williams is no longer serving as Director of the Sikeston Department of Public Safety. James McMillen has been named Acting Director by City Manager Jonathan Douglass."

In his statement, Douglass thanked Williams for his service to Sikeston DPS since 1993 and wished him well in his future endeavors.

A meeting was held Friday evening where DPS employees were informed of the decision. Williams said the decision involved no wrongdoing.

“So it is clear to everyone wanting to know, there was no misconduct in any way,” Williams said. “In a letter from the city manager I was terminated as director of Sikeston’s Department of Public Safety. In the opinion of the chief’s governing body and the city manager, they lost faith in my abilities.

“I was shocked and confused by this.”

Williams was named interim director in January 2017 after former Director Drew Juden was appointed by then-governor Eric Greitens to lead the Missouri Department of Public Safety. Williams had the interim tag removed on Feb. 10, 2017.

Williams began working for Sikeston DPS as a public safety officer in 1993. He was promoted to investigator in 1997, sergeant in 2001, lieutenant in 2003, and captain in 2011.

Posts on the Standard Democrat Facebook page show some people in the community upset at the news, wanting to know a reason for Williams’ dismissal.

“Absolutely sad!!! This man dedicated his life to the city of Sikeston and spent many nights, days, and hours away from his family only to be repaid like this 26 years later! He obviously was doing something right for this community to stay on the task force that amount of time and then become chief. Absolutely sad!” said a post by Kari Nelson.

Others, like a post from Judy Burnett Huddleston, want a reason for Williams’ dismissal. “The people of Sikeston DEMAND an answer!” she writes.

When contacted Tuesday morning, Douglass said no further information could be released at this time.

“I’ve had a great career with the Sikeston Department of Public Safety,” Williams said. “It has been a great honor to serve the citizens of Sikeston. My whole career has been about providing the best community service possible with honesty and integrity. I have been humbled by all the support now and through my career.”