Carrollton Township Police Chief, Director Passes Away

The Carrollton Township Police Chief has passed away at the age of 64.

Craig Allen Oatten was born on February 1, 1958 in Saginaw. He reportedly died at home on Saturday. Oatten attended Swan Valley High School, then attended the Delta College Police Academy. Oatten started working as a part time officer for the Carrollton Township Police Department, becoming a full time officer in 1984. He would go onto to become the department’s chief of police in 1996, and the township director in 2006.

Oatten is survived by his wife and children and his mother. Funeral services will be held this Thursday at 10:00 A.M. at the Snow Funeral Home at 3775 North Center Road. Visitation will take place at the funeral home on Wednesday from 2:00 to 7:30 P.M. and on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Following Oatten’s death, Carrollton Township is taking steps to ensure the community continues to run smoothly in his absence. On Monday night, the township Board of Trustees appointed office manager Megan Weaver as interim township director and Sergeant Chris Kellet as interim police chief.

The board is also considering placing a memorial for Oatten at the Iron Belle trail head in the township. Township offices will also be closed Thursday so staff may attend Oatten’s funeral.