Fort Valley Fires Police Chief, Assistant Chief and City Administrator

FORT VALLEY, Ga. – City leaders in Fort Valley voted to terminate Police Chief DJ Flores and Assistant Chief Michael Bostic during a city council meeting on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, marking a significant shakeup in city leadership. The following day, City Administrator Gary Lee was also dismissed. The reason for the dismissals were alleged insubordination, ethical violations and unauthorized purchases.

City of Fort Valley officials said the actions were taken during a council vote, with Councilwoman Larhonda Eason casting the sole dissenting vote and calling the decision “illegal.”

Mayor Shakeena Reeves addressed the terminations the next day, confirming that Flores’ dismissal was effective immediately. Reeves said steps were taken that evening to secure city property and sensitive materials.

“In safeguarding city property, city documents, and personal information that could have been shredded or removed, we wanted to secure the chief’s office and his executive assistant’s office,” Reeves said, adding that bolt locks were placed on the doors by the head of public works.

Following the terminations, Captain Alger Raines was appointed interim chief of the Fort Valley Police Department.

On Feb. 4, Reeves released a public statement acknowledging community concern and emphasizing continuity within the police department. She said the city remains safe and that leadership is working collaboratively to ensure stability.

Reeves highlighted Raines’ 14 years of service with the department, noting his prior roles as patrol sergeant, detective sergeant and captain over the Criminal Investigation Division. She said Raines has received multiple honors, including the Exceptional Merit Award for lifesaving heroism and being named Officer of the Year twice.

The mayor also thanked the Peach County Sheriff’s Office for its support during the transition, citing the importance of cooperation among public safety agencies.

City officials said they remain committed to transparency and accountability as Fort Valley moves forward following the leadership changes.