By Zoë Pickett

Cullen Police Chief Fannie Rankin released a statement Friday confirming the town’s police patrol vehicles are currently uninsured. Rankin called the situation “a profound failure of process” that leaves both officers and taxpayers at risk.

All patrol units have been grounded until coverage can be verified. Rankin said she has arranged for other law enforcement agencies to respond to calls in the meantime. Webster Parish deputies will respond to calls for service until the State of Louisiana formulates a plan.

The Chief has requested an emergency special meeting with Mayor Terry Hoof and the Town Council to provide proof of insurance and investigate how the lapse occurred. Date and time for the meeting were not set at publication time.

“The ball is now in the Mayor and Town Council’s court to resolve this issue,” Rankin stated, urging citizens to contact local leaders and demand transparency.

According to the most recent census, there are 680 residents in the 1.2 square mile area.

SEE COMPLETE LETTER BELOW.

As of now, no one from Cullen Town Hall has responded to requests for comment.