HARDIN - Hardin residents appear split over what American Police Force's intentions are, but Hardin mayoral candidate Kerri Smith says the group is here to help.

Two days after American Police Force members arrive in Hardin in black Mercedes police cars, the Hardin decals are gone. "Who is the American Police Force that's what I would like to know," said Hardin resident Kizzy Neutgens.

When we approached the group Friday morning an APF member instructed us he wasn't sure where the group's leader Captain Michael Hilton was. Minutes later Hilton abruptly left the facility.

"It probably is [mysterious] to those that don't know what's going on," said Kerri Smith. Smith is the wife of Two Rivers Authority Executive Director Greg Smith, who was recently placed on administrative leave. No public explanation has been given as to Smith's dismissal.

Kerri wouldn't comment on her husband's paid leave, but says the truth about APF will be revealed and the public has nothing to fear.

"Don't panic, just go with the flow and everything will be fine," said Smith.

But other Hardin residents are concerned about the lack of information so far. "There's a lot of secrecy going on that's what I would say," said a Hardin resident who asked not to be identified.

American Police Force says it will meet with the media Saturday morning and answer questions regarding the group's secrecy and discuss its future plans for Hardin.

The bondholders are yet to approve the contract between Two Rivers Authority and American Police Force.