The City of Groveland has announced that Police Chief Shawn Ramsey is no longer employed by the city, but officials have declined to publicly explain the circumstances surrounding his departure, citing personnel policies.
In a brief statement, city officials confirmed Ramsey’s separation from employment and said they do not comment on personnel matters. The city simultaneously announced plans to appoint an interim public safety director and initiate an independent third-party review of the Groveland Police Department’s operations, policies, procedures, and finances.
As of today, no public records have been released explaining whether Ramsey was terminated, resigned, or separated under another employment arrangement. News organizations and public records advocates have submitted requests seeking documents related to the chief’s departure.
Ramsey’s exit comes amid an escalating dispute between the police chief and city leadership that had already become the subject of legal action and public controversy.
On Aug. 14, 2026, Ramsey filed a whistleblower lawsuit against the City of Groveland, alleging that he faced retaliation after reporting what he believed were violations of Florida’s Government-in-the-Sunshine Law, misuse of public office, abuse of governmental authority, and other misconduct by city officials.
According to the lawsuit, Ramsey raised concerns about city governance and subsequently became the target of investigations, disciplinary actions, and other adverse employment measures. The complaint alleges that city officials sought to undermine his authority and retaliate against him for reporting perceived wrongdoing.
The legal dispute follows months of publicly reported tensions between Ramsey and Groveland Mayor Keith Keogh. Those disagreements reportedly involved internal investigations, whistleblower complaints, questions surrounding city governance, and the administration’s oversight of municipal operations.
Neither the city nor the mayor has publicly addressed the specific allegations contained in Ramsey’s lawsuit. City officials have maintained that personnel matters are confidential and have not disclosed details regarding the chief’s separation.
The city’s decision to commission an independent review of the police department has added another layer of scrutiny to an already contentious situation. Officials have stated that the review will examine departmental operations, policies, and financial practices, though they have not publicly linked the review to Ramsey’s departure.
At this time, the central question surrounding Ramsey’s exit remains unanswered. While his whistleblower lawsuit provides insight into the ongoing conflict between the chief and city leadership, no official explanation has been released regarding why he is no longer employed by the City of Groveland.
The lawsuit remains pending, and additional details may emerge as public records requests are fulfilled and court proceedings continue.
