As we prepare for the community to meet the two finalists for the vacant Chief of Police position, each finalist will address the community and any questions. Please submit your questions for the candidates.
Please note that, due to limited time, all questions may not be asked; some questions may be combined with others to maximize the candidates' time. An external moderator will conduct the review and asking of the questions. For consideration, please submit questions by 1/4/2021.
Why has Cleveland decided to leave his current position with the Athens-Clarke County Police Department? According to an article published with the Classic City News a few days ago, former employees of the ACCPD allege that Spruill is an ineffective leader, has failed to gain the trust of the department, and created a toxic work environment in the 3 years he has been there. What is his response to those allegations? How would things be different here in Frederick?
What specifically attracted you to apply for this job for our wonderful city and what unique skills, abilities, and priorities do you posses that are in alignment with our city's values and priorities?
Suicide rates among police officers nationwide is extremely high. In the past FPD officers who are diagnosed with PTSD or related issues were often put on desk duty, forced to take time off without pay, and received little or no support from command staff. Many have been afraid to say anything for fear of losing their job. What will you do to make it easier for officers to ask for help, and will you provide better resources, support, and training for all officers related to mental health and wellness?
What is your position about the value of de-escalation training, and would you require it if selected as FPD Chief?
You have applied for several positions in cities across the US over the last year. Why are you interested in leaving your position in Pittsburgh?
What is your opinion on Community Oriented Policing and how have you supported or implemented such practices?
We have seen some police drpartments around the nation largely disengage from the business of enforcing the law. How will you ensure that both life and property are properly protected in a way that drives out the criminal element, treats all equally and justly as well as protecting the property that people have worked so hard for?
A visible uniformed active police presence/patrol is critical to maintaining the type of community citizens of Frederick expect. When Kim Dine was chief this was effectively implemented. Since Chief Dine has left there has been an observable decline in uniformed police patrols, specifically in the downtown/Carroll Creek area. What will you do as chief to make sure citizens and visitors are aware of active policing? We want uniformed police on bicycles, on foot and segways. Will you commit to this as chief?
Has data ever changed your perspective about something? And, what did you do to learn more about that new perspective? Talk about the value of data in performance, policies, and procedures including how you plan to share the public information with the community.
The black lives matter movement has been controversial in some elements of our society. What are your personal views on this movement?