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N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The police department in Oakes will undergo a restructuring that could take up to six months; in part, due to a recent termination of one of its officers.

Oakes City Council members voted in a special session Monday night to start the process of restructuring. Mayor Monty Zimmer said former officer Josh Sasse was recently fired due to “unethical conduct of an officer” but would not comment further as an investigation is continuing.

At present, the department has one officer. Corey Heim will remain as interim chief until a full-time chief is found and then stay on as a patrol officer. An interview panel for the next chief will be established to include individuals with law enforcement knowledge in addition to the Police Committee.

In the meantime, the city is finalizing a short-term contract with the Dickey County Sheriff’s department to provide an enforcement presence until the restructuring is complete.