FOR THE DAILY SOUTHERNER
Gerald D. Ward
TARBORO —
TO THE EDITOR: I was having breakfast at a restaurant last week when I was asked, What do you think of the new police chief selection? I responded with, Who did they choose? Thats when I was given the devastating news it wasn't one of our own. The Town had chosen a person with limited police experience from out of town. Well now, why don't you town leaders just walk up to the members of the Tarboro PD who have put in the time, made the sacrifices and risked their lives (some for over 20 years) and slap them in the face. After all, that's what you just did with your actions. And while you are at it, they deserve an explanation as to why established members of the TPD weren't deserving of the chief's position. Before you start reading anything into my thoughts, know this: I don't know the person chosen. I'm sure he is a nice person, even though he hasn't paid his dues as an officer. My issue with the appointed one is the poor judgment he used when he accepted the position of chief. As a former Tarboro Police officer, there is no way on God’s green earth I would have dared apply for the chief’s position with only seven years of experience knowing there were others who had been around much longer and were much more deserving. This newly appointed chief has to know that and, if he was of good character, he would have politely thanked the city leaders for the consideration and politely turned down the position. That would have been the right thing to do. I can only hope the fine officers who presently protect us and put their lives on the line every day and night will get over this shameful example of town leadership. In addition, I sincerely hope the citizens of Tarboro remember this day and remove the people responsible for this travesty in the upcoming election.
In ending my thoughts on this subject, let me make the citizens aware of one more thing. There are many departments across our state and country which make the news for the wrong reasons such as having officer(s) under investigation for wrongdoing. When was the last time you heard Tarboro PD mentioned in a negative way? Be very proud of the fine record the TPD has established. And to the officers of the TPD I leave this wish for you: May your children and your childrens children rise up and call you blessed Thank God for you and be safe. I appreciate everything you do even if others do not.
GERALD D. WARD
Tarboro, NC
