I recently read a well-written Opinion by Steve LeBoon (“Is FOP letter akin to a canary in a coal mine?”). In his piece, he supports Dover Police Chief Tom Johnson and states that crime has steadily declined under his tenure. I do not know if this statement is factual because no statistics were submitted with the article. I have nothing against the chief at all, but we must look at the facts we do know:
The reality is the city has multiple issues that need to be addressed by the mayor and City Council. The key worry is that some citizens do not feel safe traveling in Dover during the day and night.
I know the chief has limited resources to deploy to the crime-ridden areas. However, when was the last time you saw a patrol car drive through your development? Several years ago, this was a common event in my neighborhood. These drives, I thought, stopped or reduced criminal activity in the area.
I do not see the police union changing its stance unless a resolution occurs or if fences are mended between the chief and the lodge. From the letters I have read from the union, it appears the erosion is too deep to repair.
If it is true that officers are retiring or turning in their paperwork to leave, the city must take this as a major crisis, and progressive and positive steps are needed to stop the hemorrhage.
The mayor and council cannot sweep the recent events under the rug. The situation is out, and if not addressed correctly, it will only fester. The citizens deserve prompt action, even if it means the replacement of Chief Tom Johnson. The damage may be too severe to correct. We need a united police force.
William G. Faust Jr.
Dover
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.
