Hold the phone, ChumCity citizens! The Priceville City Council just flipped the script on a controversial case. Remember Officer Garry Chapman, the one involved in that high-speed chase that ended in tragedy last month? Well, he's back! The council voted to reinstate Chapman after a lengthy closed-door session Monday night. It was a unanimous decision, folks! Instead of being fired, Chapman's now facing a 10-day suspension without pay. Mayor Sam Heflin took a seat for this one, recusing himself from the vote. Things got real when the public was invited to comment. Turns out, opinions were split! And guess who showed up to speak? None other than Duane Lee Chapman, a.k.a. "Dog the Bounty Hunter," Officer Chapman's dad! Talk about a dramatic twist! Quick recap: Officer Chapman was initially canned after a disciplinary hearing found he broke department policy during that fateful chase on September 6th. He was pursuing Archie Brandon Hale, 40, for suspected DUI and traffic violations when Hale allegedly sped off. The chase ended horribly at Highway 36 and U.S. 31 in Hartselle. Hale's vehicle collided with another car, tragically killing 17-year-old Tristan Hollis and injuring others. Hale's been charged with reckless murder but, of course, is innocent until proven guilty. An internal investigation determined Chapman was tearing through downtown Hartselle at nearly 100 mph, even though he admitted he wasn't familiar with the area! City officials felt he didn't properly assess the risks of the chase. And get this: Before his reinstatement, Chapman reportedly filed a $10 million wrongful termination claim against the city! Drama, drama, drama! Hale is still locked up without bond at the Morgan County Jail. As for Officer Chapman, he's got a suspension to serve, but he's back on the force. What do you Chums think of this decision? Let us know in the comments!Priceville Officer Reinstated After Fatal Pursuit
Dog the Bounty Hunter Weighs In!
What Happened?
The Aftermath
What's Next?
