Re “Aware of Ferguson, Bixby Has Warned His Officers”
[img]2705|right|Chief Scott Bixby||no_popup[/img]The all-encompassing bitterness and explosion of anti-police biases that have engulfed the country since Ferguson and Michael Brown became bywords have leaked all the way into the Police Station on Duquesne Avenue.
“A difficult time for everybody,” says Chief Scott Bixby, who has warned his officers multiple times about treating all with tolerance.
“I am certainly not naïve to the perception of some people. Frankly, what it comes down to is we all have our perceptions.
“I would be naïve to believe that what I think is stone-cold accurate,” regarding what happened in Ferguson. “I have in mind what I think the circumstances are, based on what I have seen and heard.
“Everyone else does, too,” says the chief.
“My opinion is not more solid or better than anyone else’s. It’s different. I have a responsibility to the community.
“I certainly understand there are other opinions out there.”
Question: Do you get pushback from your officers when you warm them against going too far?
“No, not at all,” said Mr. Bixby. “I am very proud of our officers. We have had quite a few vacancies for awhile, and still we have maintained good statistics (with regard to crime).
“They are keenly aware of all the facts and circumstances, what’s expected of them. They are totally on board.”
Have you changed your mind about Ferguson?
“The prosecutor who explained how the grand jury arrived at their decision was articulate. He outlined a methodical, thoughtful path to their conclusions.
“It is just sad,” said the chief, “that there is a divide.”
