Oak Ridge resident alleges disrespect by officer; mayor directs investigation

Juanica Mitchell, an Oak Ridge property owner, told the City Council on July 8 that two Oak Ridge police officers were on her property on June 29 and that one officer (later identified as Officer Thomas) would not explain why he was there. Mitchell said she felt disrespected when an officer waved her away and instructed her to leave the area. She described a frustrating follow‑up at the police department when trying to file a complaint.

Mayor Dawson thanked Mitchell for bringing the issue to the council’s attention and directed the city manager and Police Chief Robin Smith to investigate. Chief Smith told council he was not familiar with the incident and asked to meet with Mitchell and city staff to gather details so the department could investigate and involve the appropriate captain.

Council members asked about community policing strategies and complaint tracking. Chief Smith said the typical practice is to have complainants come to the station to file written statements, though some complaints are verbal; he said the department keeps records and will follow up. Councilman Hammond asked staff to review the complaint process so the council understands how complaints are recorded and resolved.

The mayor said staff would arrange a meeting between Mitchell, the city manager and the police chief to examine the incident and the complaint process.