POINT PLEASANT — The latest plot twist in the drama which surrounds the Mason County Sheriff’s Department included Thursday’s resignation of Chief Deputy Rob Wilson who has released a statement clarifying his recent decision to not only leave his post, but the agency to which he has belonged for several years.

The statement reads as follows:

To The Citizens of Mason County,

I would like to clarify the reason for my resignation from the Mason County Sheriff’s Department. I have been asked to do things while serving at the Sheriff’s Department that are against my principles and beliefs. I made every attempt to improve the Sheriff’s Department when I was named Chief Deputy, but any attempt to resolve the current issues were met with insurmountable resistance, without the authority or backing to enforce the needed changes .

I have always strived to serve my community and country honorably, both in the US Armed Forces and as a Police Officer, and I feel that at this time I must stand up for what I believe and know to be right. I am a Police Officer, not a politician.

Wilson then gave special recognition to the officers in his department who“recently have been working hard around the clock to insure that there is a law enforcement presence in our county.” Wilson also gave special recognition to different agencies, including the Mason County Detachment of the West Virginia State Police “both for their support in providing additional resources during this difficult time, and also working with the Point Pleasant Police Department and Mason County Magistrate Court for their help in organizing the upcoming worthless check round up on March 6. I hope this project can still move forward and have tremendous success, and a spirit of unity may arise from all of this turmoil.”

Wilson wrapped up his statement by addressing the citizens of Mason County, stating his appreciation for “allowing me to serve them as a Deputy Sheriff.” Wilson then writes, “This county is where I was born and raised, and I hope one day that it can return to that great place I remember as a child. Best wishes to everyone and God bless.”

Wilson’s resignation is effective on March 1.