In light of the events in Dallas last week, I want the residents of Siloam Springs to know how much we appreciate you. We have been overwhelmed by the show of support you have expressed to us. Hardly a single call or foot patrol has occurred over the weekend without someone approaching our officers to thank us for what we do and offer their support. The care and respect we share with our community is very high as a norm, but we have not seen it this strong since the Towers fell.
It is my heartfelt belief that our relationship with the residents of Siloam Springs stems from a number of simple principles. First, we are members of this community as well. We and our families live, shop, work and attend schools here. Second, we strive to perform our duties in a manner that is dedicated to being constitutionally correct, morally and ethically sound, and carefully restrained within the authority and responsibilities you have assigned us. Third, is training; the State of Arkansas requires all officers receive training on biased-based policing, citizen contact, Constitutional law and court decisions, as well as response to resistance to name a few. Perhaps the greatest principle that allows for this exceptional relationship between community members and our department is that we truly respect each other and honestly care for each other's welfare. There is no better place to live and work, than this community and for this City.
Thank you for caring about us and rest assured, we care for you just as much.
-- Jim Wilmeth is the chief of the Siloam Springs Police Department. The opinions expressed are those of the author.
General News on 07/13/2016