The members have spoken. Tonight The APOA (Albuquerque Police Officers Association) held an emergency meeting for its members. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the current situation with the take home car policy. The officers are upset and angry their cars have been pulled. This left many to wonder, why all of a sudden? Why doesn’t the City see the benefits a take home car provides? Why can’t the City Council see that it actually costs more for the City not have take home cars? Does the City realize the barrage of lawsuits and challenges this change in policy has opened? This also made many wonder whom exactly was spearheading this change in policy? The loss of the take home cars are taxing on the officers and introduces safety issues for the officers. Our Eyes tell us that the person who is likely responsible for pulling the cars is; you guessed it again, Darren White. In fact, our Eyes tell us that while Chief Ray Schultz was ready to provide City Councilors with the logistics and benefits of the take home car policy (at the last council meeting); White gave “Schultzie” a direct order not to talk about it; not to present his documented information he had sitting on his lap. If this is true the Eye gives it’s commendations to Chief Schultz. It was at that time that Chief Schultz walked out of the meeting. Who exactly is responsible for the officers and equipment of the Police Department? Could it be true that White actually controls everything by proxy (Where is Mayor Berry)?
As it appears, the men and women of the Department have finally stood up to this dictatorial tyrant. A motion was made at this meeting for a “Vote of No Confidence” against Darren White. This would be huge; but nothing new to White. New Mexico State Police did a “Vote of No Confidence” against White on September 27, 1999. It was reported that 89 percent of the New Mexico State Police had “NO Confidence” in White. It appeared at this emergency meeting that almost 100 percent of those in attendance have “No Confidence” in their proxy leader, Darren White. It appears that the resounding lack of confidence was emanated by all ranks: rookies, veterans, detectives, and supervisors. In accordance with the APOA By-Laws, the motion was tabled for 30 days. At the end of the 30 days, all APOA members will be allowed to vote on the motion. Will this be “the straw that broke the camel’s back”?
If the Mayor wants the City functioning properly, take out the proxy block and let the Chief of Police; be the Chief. This will allow the officers to do their jobs. Otherwise, why pay for a public safety director and a chief; when the chief doesn’t possess the legitimate power or autonomy to run the Department. To the City Council; here is your opportunity to voice the “Publics Will.” This is the part of the reason your constituents voted you in to office. Stand up and right the wrong.
*For your entertainment at the top of this story is a picture of a bumper sticker that was being passed around at the APOA Meeting. COmpliments of one of our Eyes.
