SPERRY, Okla. – Sperry Fire Chief Mitchell Williamson is facing a misdemeanor assault and battery charge after an argument during a department meeting about a text message led to a physical confrontation with another firefighter.
According to court documents, Sperry Fire Department members were called to a meeting on Sept. 17 to discuss internal issues, including a screenshot of a group text message.
The screenshot was sent to the person referenced in the message, who later filed a formal complaint with the town of Sperry and its mayor.
During the department meeting, Williamson asked a firefighter to discuss his concerns about the department. The screenshot was brought up, and a different firefighter admitted to sending it. Williamson then attempted to terminate the firefighter, leading to a heated argument.
According to court documents, the confrontation continued outside the fire station, where Williamson demanded the firefighter turn over his department radio.
Investigators reviewed surveillance video that showed the confrontation escalating. The footage captured another firefighter placing an arm against Williamson’s chest, apparently trying to separate the men. Williamson is accused of extending his left arm and pushing the firefighter, causing him to move backward.
After being shown the video, Williamson acknowledged making physical contact, telling investigators, “I guess I pushed him because he put his arm on my chest.”
