A largely unexplained decision by a Maryland town to suspend its entire police force has left residents shocked, skeptical and on edge.

The small town of Ridgely, located on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, announced it was suspending officers of the Ridgely Police Department, leaving other public safety agencies to fill the void. But the town’s residents remain entirely in the dark about why it was being shut down.

"What’s very concerning is that they didn’t communicate with us in an honest and open way," said Laura Cline, a longtime Ridgely resident. "Treat us with respect. We’re adults — thinking, rational adults who deserve the truth."

Holly Justice, an esthetician who owns a spa in Ridgely, added: "We were blindsided. It makes you question the integrity of people who are supposed to protect and serve."