WMOK – Metropolis, IL – Following initial reports on the sudden relief of Golconda Police Chief Steve Walker from his duties, WMOK has obtained official documentation outlining the specific grounds for his dismissal.
According to a written Notice of Termination delivered in person to Walker on July 13, 2026, Golconda Mayor Gail Barger exercised authority under Section 3.1-35-10 of the Illinois Municipal Code (65 ILCS 5/3.1-35-10) to end Walker’s employment, citing that the action was in the best interest of the city.
Stated Grounds for Dismissal
In the official letter, Mayor Barger detailed five specific reasons for the termination:
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Investigation Delays: Repeated failure to follow up in a timely and appropriate manner with criminal investigations within the City of Golconda.
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Improper Profiling: The use of improper profiling techniques and conducting limited criminal investigations.
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Undermining Authority: Undermining the Mayor’s authority by making repeated disparaging comments about the Mayor to city staff and officials.
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Ordinance Enforcement: Repeated failure to enforce city ordinance violations.
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Refusal of Duties: Refusing to perform official duties unless specifically ordered to do so by the appointing official.
Turn-Over of City Property and Next Steps
The termination letter instructed Walker to immediately surrender all city-owned property to the city clerk. Surrendered items include:
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All city vehicles, vehicle keys, and building keys.
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Department equipment, including long guns, ammunition, work belts, bulletproof vests, and related gear.
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Badges, identification cards, and any materials identifying him as a Golconda police officer.
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Computer equipment, radios, cell phones, digital files, and all associated passwords.
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All other tangible or intangible property belonging to the City of Golconda.
The notice states that Walker was to receive all accrued salary and benefits through the July 13 termination date.
