Watonga Leaders Step Down; Officer Remains Under “Review”

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August 21, 2024

Watonga is in turmoil after both the mayor and vice mayor resigned over the weekend, leaving the city without its top two leaders. Their resignations, announced on Friday during a special meeting intended to demote the city manager, follow recent controversies involving the Watonga Police Department.

The controversy includes two significant use-of-force incidents. In one case, John Sexton alleged his rights were violated by police while walking with his son on July 4. Though the Blaine County District Attorney’s Office did not press charges, the officer involved is under review. In another incident from June 2, the same officer reportedly punched a child with autism three times while trying to de-escalate a situation, resulting in bruises. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) is currently reviewing this case.

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Top Oklahoma Schools Recognized at SWOSU SWIM 2026

Weatherford, OK — The annual Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) Interscholastic Meet (SWIM), one of the longest-running academic competitions in Oklahoma, was held March 26, 2026, on the SWOSU campus in Weatherford. The first SWIM contest was