Maj. Mike Onka, a 25-year veteran officer with the Independence Police Department in Missouri, has filed a civil lawsuit alleging that city leaders, including former City Manager Zach Walker, created a secret agreement to keep former Police Chief Adam Dustman on the payroll after his resignation. The lawsuit, filed on April 28 in Jackson County Circuit Court, claims that this agreement was designed to conceal damaging information about Dustman's management of the police department. Onka alleges that he faced retaliation after reporting Dustman's conduct during a trip to Washington, D.C., which he claims violated department policy. Despite resigning in August, Dustman reportedly continues to receive pay and influence police operations, which Onka argues violates Missouri laws regarding contracts. The lawsuit details a hostile work environment for officers who raised concerns about Dustman's leadership, indicating that his actions led to a dysfunctional department. City officials have not commented on the lawsuit or the allegations made within it.