I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent statement by Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 15, which, in my view, was comprised of unsubstantiated claims and amounted to a personal attack on Chief Tom Johnson Jr. of the Dover Police Department.
As a resident of Dover for the past eight years, having relocated from another state, I have observed firsthand the city’s progress, growth and vitality. Most notably, crime in Dover has shown a steady decline during Chief Johnson’s tenure. This positive trend should be acknowledged and supported, rather than obscured by inflammatory rhetoric.
The union’s recent letter does not reflect a constructive dialogue about policy or departmental concerns. Instead, it reads as a personal grievance directed at Chief Johnson and lacks substantive evidence or professional merit. Such a public display is both disappointing and counterproductive, particularly at a time when unity and confidence in our law enforcement leaders are paramount.
The factual record demonstrates that crime has declined in Dover over the last several years. While incidents inevitably occur in any community, the overall trajectory reflects a safer city under Chief Johnson’s leadership. To disregard this progress in favor of publishing disparaging remarks undermines not only the chief but also the credibility of the lodge itself.
In closing, I respectfully urge the FOP to reflect on the tone and content of its recent communication. A retraction and public apology would demonstrate accountability and help restore trust. Without such action, the letter risks being interpreted as defamatory in nature, given its reliance on personal grievances, rather than verifiable facts. The citizens of Dover deserve better from those who claim to represent their interests.
Steve LeBoon
Dover
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.
