The Evansville Police Department says the minority representation on its force is too small and its looking to change that. Police say its a balance of stigmas, distrust and past mistakes. Chief Billy Bolin says there's two black men that may be hired come January which will double the number of minorities on the force. But blacks represent almost 20 percent of the city, and Bolin says his department is way behind where it should be. He's trying to eliminate the stigma of being a snitch or traitor by joining law enforcement. Right now, there's Officer Steve Shemwell and two others on the force. Ramon Clayton owns Shark's Den, a businessman who says EPD has alot of work to do. Clayton says the few minorities on the force are nowhere in sight. Bolin admits the force isn't perfect but all men say there's hope and moving on from past mistakes. But re-writing history isn't easy. From outreach programs to open lines of communication, Bolin is hopeful to gain more trust from the community, but says members of the public play a crucial role in making that happen. EPD is accepting applications until October 31st.
Comments
If EPD didn't use nepotism there would be more room for minorities.
Jeff W.
October 16, 2012 at 4:42 pm
