The Rolling Fork Police Department is searching for a new leader in light of the firing of Chief Undray Williams.

During a meeting of the town’s mayor and aldermen last week, Williams was “relieved of his responsibilities as chief” after “not getting authorization on the purchasing of equipment,” said Rolling Fork Mayor James Denson. He did not elaborate on other items that also contributed to the firing and were discussed during a closed session.

“It was an appropriate time to move in another direction,” Denson said.

The mayor said Assistant Police Chief Michael Myles will serve as interim chief until city officials find a replacement.

Williams had been in the position since November 2001 after serving as an officer with the Rolling Fork Police Department for several years, Denson said.

Reportedly, the minutes from the meeting showed Williams was terminated “with cause.”

Alderman Charles Russell, who abstained from the vote, said, “(the reason for the termination) wasn’t clear to me.” He said the firing was the result of “a combination of things” but would not give details.

Russell said Williams’ relationship with the board has been poor since the last election. “Some accusations had been made of which I’m not at liberty to discuss,” Russell said. “He does serve the will of the board and mayor.”

The new board and mayor took office last June, said Denson, who immediately asked the board to remove Williams. “I guess they were not ready to do that at the time,” he said.

Aldermen Mary Corban, Carolyn Washington and Calvin Stewart voted to terminate. Alderman LaDonna Sias was not present.