In February 2023, Sheriff Rick Hickman announced his retirement following significant criticism over his past actions. In 2022, Hickman admitted to occasionally using racial slurs, stating, ‘I don’t use the N-word a lot but occasionally, I might have said it.’ Additionally, concerns were raised about his hiring practices and the release of inmates without proper procedures. Prosecuting Attorney Rebecca McCoy advised him to resign due to these issues. Hickman’s retirement was effective March 1, 2023. ([fox16.com](https://www.fox16.com/news/investigates/prairie-county-sherriff-retiring-after-facing-immense-criticism-over-past-actions/?utm_source=openai))

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