This picture was found on the web along with the following news article.  I have no information on Chief Willbanks' lineage.


Published Tuesday, September 01, 1998 10:36 AM CDT
in "The Cartersville Daily Tribune News"

Cartersville Chief of Police J.R. Willbanks has resigned. 

"After serving as Chief of Police for nearly 10 years, I feel that it is time to move on and pursue other career opportunities," he said in an official statement.

Willbanks said he submitted his resignation to Cartersville City Manager Sam Grove on Monday, August 31 and that it is effective Sept. 11.

"I fully support his decision and wish him well in seeking other career moves," Grove said.

Mayor Sam Smith said, "I have no comment on that. It's a personnel matter and Sam Grove will disseminate any information on that subject."

City Attorney David Archer also deferred to Grove when asked about Willbanks' decision to resign.

In his official disclosure, Willbanks commended the Cartersville Police Dept. for being a "well trained and professional department." He thanked Grove, Smith and "all the members of the City Council for their support."

When asked to comment on Willbanks' resignation Tuesday morning, council member Ennis Denham said, "I'm shocked," revealing this was the first he'd heard of it.

Willbanks did not want to comment on what career opportunities he would be pursuing but stated he and his family intend to remain in Cartersville. 
 
 
 
 
 

 
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