JON GLOVER CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST
My momma told me, "Don't start something that you aren't willing to continue." I think that is what happened with our Shreveport Police Department (SPD).
I don't have a problem with addressing what isn't or shouldn't have been a part of an officer's duty. But I do have a problem with how we found out what wasn't or isn't a part of officer's duty. The "we aren't doing this anymore" method.
Publicly declaring what is no longer the duty of SPD should have been announced at a City Council meeting. Maybe the author of these newly designed "we aren't doing this anymore" didn't want to answer why they decided all of a sudden "we aren't doing this no more".
What's really behind the new attitude "we aren't doing this anymore"? Is it that police officers' salaries aren't commensurate with surrounding areas? Is it that a true assessment? Does this support the "we aren't doing this anymore" concept?
These are perilous times. They are trying many a man's soul , police officers included. No one will deny that these officers put their lives on the line for you and me.
Did the mayor and his administration have first look? And, if so, did they approve this method of unveiling the newly "we aren't doing this anymore" policy? I appreciate the great services the SPD rendered when these duties were not part of their job. I thank them . Sometimes we get carried away with our requests. But like my momma said , "Don't start something you aren't willing to continue."
Yes, we are shorthanded with police officers. Some adjustments need to be made.
What were the duties and responsibilities of police officers before the "we don't do that anymore" unveiling? What is relevant to the duty of police officers "to serve and protect"?
What now are the duties of SPD?
Did SPD's Chief Ben Raymond consider the impact of "we aren't going to do this anymore" on his request to additional pay?
THIS ARTICLE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE September 4 ISSUE OF FOCUS SB - THE INQUISITOR.