Jackson Free Press

This editorial appears in the print edition this week. The mayor has requested that Council schedule a time at a special meeting today at 4 p.m. to confirm Sheriff McMillin as police chief.

The Jackson Free Press was not entirely surprised when Jackson Mayor Frank Melton appointed Hinds County Sheriff Malcolm McMillin as Jackson's new police chief. Of course, Melton couldn't be bothered to form a committee, scan databases and send out incentive packages to prospective candidates or fielding agencies. Melton likes it quick and sloppy.

Granted, McMillin's no cream puff. He's got years of experience, he knows how to work with morale, he knows how to use his resources, and he works well under pressure. We endorsed him in his last election for a reason, but former Jackson Police Chief Robert Johnson said it best in a post on the JFP Web site:

"McMillin is a good friend, a pretty good administrator, one heckuva cop, first rate politician and a brilliant PR person. … That said, he cannot do both jobs effectively. Mac already faces long standing and seemingly intractable problems within his own department, such as jail overcrowding, faulty (jail) locks and facilities, outdated vehicles and equipment, insufficient personnel, hiring and retention problems, low pay … All of these issues require full time attention and diligent efforts to address…. Jackson faces similar or even more serious problems … that require undivided attention, energy, (and) commitment … by a chief who is not already facing a full plate."

McMillin's good at what he does. He was re-elected because he's a savvy leader, but the voters of Hinds County had no idea they were electing a part-timer. They voted for McMillin because they felt he would dedicate every resource to the county. A Byram resident may applaud Melton's appointment at the moment, but that same voter will be the first to howl about McMillin's moonlighting the moment county crime stats creep up. What McMillin needs under his Christmas tree is a smart, strong Jackson police chief to work with, not the chief's badge.

Another issue is the matter of consolidation. Some city council members think McMillin's arrival will mean an end to mirror-image county and city endeavors, such as city and county drug task forces. Others, like Council President Leslie McLemore, fear county and city money could end up getting mixed, legally or not.

A careful, well-researched consolidation of services may be in order, but it doesn't need to happen under these harried circumstances, and certainly not because Dale Danks calls for it. It also shouldn't be because a bumbling mayor, who would not be re-elected according to a WAPT poll, needs a PR boost. If we're going to have any conversation about city/county consolidation, it should be over the merits of consolidation, not because of any mayor-driven crisis.

Previous Comments

ID

75611

Comment

City Clerk Cedric Morgan said today that the mayor has requested that Council add confirmation of McMillin to the agenda of the special session today, which Council scheduled to discuss lingering payroll issues.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T12:18:03-06:00

ID

75612

Comment

What is the deal with confirmation, I just got this email: "My name is Alma Lee Heard I am the Executive Office Coordinator for Chief McMillin, I am sending you this to inform you that the meeting at City Hall today will only be the Mayor asking the City Council to confirm the date of the Confirmation Hearing for Malcolm McMillin to be the Chief of Police for the City of Jackson on the City Council’s Agenda. The confirmation hearing date will be set today only, not the actual hearing." We need to let our citizens know.

Author

Belmont

Date

2007-11-28T13:49:14-06:00

ID

75613

Comment

Huh. Well, I think he doesn't get to add agenda items to a special meeting. But it's interesting that they're sending around an e-mail about it. Maybe they're worried about having the votes.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T13:51:20-06:00

ID

75614

Comment

Also, Belmont, as we understand it, some Council members were surprised to see the agenda item appear on their special-meeting agenda today. That's how we heard about it.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T13:53:57-06:00

ID

75615

Comment

I agree pitchforking the two together will be harried, but it is just possible it will work. Agreed, DD,Jr. should not even be in the picture. Some of the problems being encountered by both agencies might be resolved smoother with Mac being the final decision maker. It looks like both Melton and Doug Anderson will hold less sway in January and that will bode well for the taxpayer. Now if the average citizen is served better with crime decreasing, we can all take hope. Lee Vance will have an easier time running JPD just because Melton cannot bully Mac.

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2007-11-28T13:57:30-06:00

ID

75616

Comment

Lady Ladd, Everyone is making valid points complete with cautious skepticim, and feeings of unease. Everyone is raising valid questions regarding the possibility of the consolidation of city/county reources and responsibilities. Everyone appears to be willing to have a conversation, and a public debate about the "issues" that have suddenly come to the urface as the result of the creation of Chief Sheriff McMillian. The Chinese have so artfully institutionalized this situation in their symbols for danger and opportunity. They are not two sides of the same coin..they are one and the same. I like this new atmosphere of inevitable and unrelenting change in Jackson/Hinds.

Author

FrankMickens

Date

2007-11-28T15:34:16-06:00

ID

75617

Comment

i think we're already getting a glimpse of what mac is gonna do as head of both depts with his recent promotions. lee vance, ty lewis, and ron sampson are probably going to be running the everyday operations of the dept, with mac providing the direction and signing off on official docs. hell, vance is probably gonna end up being paid more by the city than mac will, and lewis and sampson will be relatively close, so that makes a huge statement to me about who's running things. the great leaders are the greatest delegators, and put the right people in the right positions to create success, and mac seems to be smart enough to know that. i'm not saying this is a slam dunk success, i'll believe it when i see it. but at least it gives us more hope than what we've been subjected to in the past 2+ years. mclemore said that jackson deserves a full-time police chief. i beg to differ. jackson deserves a police chief that knows what the hell he's doing!

Author

eyerah

Date

2007-11-28T15:52:07-06:00

ID

75618

Comment

For whatever it's worth, here is my two cents on the McMillin holding two jobs issue. I understand and appreciate the concerns voiced about McMillin being stretched too thinly with taking on the Chief job as well as the Sheriff's duties. Nevertheless, I am totally, 100% supportive of the move. Mac has proven his effectiveness under the most trying of circumstances for many years. If anybody can get the job done, he is THE person, at the right time and the right place. I am not dismissing the challenge that this will be, nor the fact that there are still problems in Hinds County that Mac has not been able to cure (mostly budget issues out of his control, though). The real problem is that JPD, the law enforcement body for the capital city and largest city in our state, is in crisis and becomes a much bigger problem than if were any other city. Fair or not, the problems of the city and JPD will be more publicized in the media center of the state than if the identical problems were happening at the 4 corners of the state. The morale of the department, the organizational chaos, the interplay of politics, and all those things stated in the blogs here and elsewhere are simply reflections, if not anecdotal evidence, that JPD is in crisis. We need help immediately, not 2 years from now. We need something dramatic and yet real, that will allow JPD to rebuild and become an effective crime fighting and community protection force, which most would say it is not today. McMillin brings untold resources to bear on our problems in the city. Most would agree that he would be the best as Sheriff (look at the vote) or the Chief. Some disagree that he can realistically do both. I say give it a chance. Mac brings many intangibles to the equation that will go a long way towards solving the systemic problems of JPD and not just the superficial ones. He will shield the department from political interference that has been a genuine problem, particularly lately. He brings statewide credibility (i.e., legislative support, greater Jackson area respect) to the efforts of the city. His appointment sends a signal not just to the average citizen out there like me, but to the business community as well, that the city is taking creative and serious measures to address the city's real and perceived crime problems. It will become a safer and thus better place to live and to do business. Finally, I don't think we should be too worried about Dale Danks being in this picture. Believe it or not, this proposal has been in the works for a year, and it didn't originate with Dale Danks, (even though he talked about the concept during his own administration as Mayor). If he wants to take credit for it, fine. I don't care. I'm interested here in the end results. Let's not lose sight of the objective . . . solid, effective and efficient law enforcement in the City of Jackson. This experiment may not succeed. However, it is clearly the best option on the table (and not just the only one). If it ultimately results in some consolidation of services in Hinds/Jackson, then so be it. All the better. But, in the meantime, there is no question that, harried or not, this plan is better than anything else out there to begin a needed repair of JPD and a sense of security to the citizens of Jackson. I would implore the Council to confirm and to move steadfastly forward to support Mac's initiatives as he presents them in the future.

Author

Pops

Date

2007-11-28T16:12:32-06:00

ID

75619

Comment

I don't think the issue is whether he can be a good police chief; I think most people would agree that he is very qualified. I think the issue is over whether it makes sense, and sets the right precedent, for him to *moonlight* as chief while he's the sheriff. I think he should make a decision: be sheriff or chief. If he wants to be police chief, then step down as sheriff and let Hinds County elect a replacement. I think this logic should apply regardless of who it is. I get uncomfortable with the idea that certain people are above the rules, regardless of who they are. And the truth is, the county has very severe problems that need his, or someone's, full attention.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T16:17:11-06:00

ID

75620

Comment

Also, if this has been in the works for a year, why did he re-run as sheriff?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T16:17:46-06:00

ID

75621

Comment

Just to piggyback on eyerah's comments I've never been under the assumption that Sheriff Mac was going to try to full manage both departments, but would instead hand the day-to-day operation of JPD to someone like Vance. Appointing him police chief was a feel good measure to assure the public that an experienced law enforcement ADMINISTRATOR was in charge. And since no one in JPD was willing to accept the top cop job when offered by Melton, this was a good option to get someone experienced in quickly. And if the end result is a serious discussion of consolidating some duplicate city-county services , then let's get it on. This will be a good trial run for those of us who are interested in exploring the pros and cons of gov't consolidation, and at the end of the day if it doesn't work we can go back to the old status quo.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-11-28T16:27:58-06:00

ID

75622

Comment

Donna I don't think Mac is breaking any rules from what I've read here so "being above the rules" shouldn't apply. I think this is a special situation that has the right alignment of the stars to happen, and one of the reasons Melton has appointed Mac is to wash himself of the police issue that he's made such a mess of thus far. And while Melton can delegate so can Mac so I am comfortable with that as long as the results are there. Mac has 4 years as sheriff but if things don't work out in the city he won't be here and I wouldn't be surprised if in 2 years the new mayor doesn't pick a new police chief, which would be free of the cloud of being a crony of Melton. I have said this before but I don't think there is a sane professional police officer who would want to work here with the current administration. Mac as police chief with stability for a couple of years beats the current chaos and would certainly be better than anybody Melton could recruit.

Author

GLewis

Date

2007-11-28T16:38:09-06:00

ID

75623

Comment

Maybe "rules" isn't the right word. I don't mean in terms of what laws are on the books necessarily. The point is that both jobs are full-time, and as it is set up now, are now meant to be done by the same person. McMillin may be good, but he's not a superhero, and Jackson shouldn't expect him to be, for his own health as much as anything else. Our city has a bad track record of setting people up for failure, and we need to watch our expectations here. Mac as police chief with stability for a couple of years beats the current chaos and would certainly be better than anybody Melton could recruit. That may be true, but why doesn't he resign as sheriff then? And if he planned this for a year as Pops alludes to, why did he re-run for sheriff? There are not just two options here. People have to make tough choices all the time, and as former Chief Johnson says, this seems to be time for the sheriff to make a choice. We don't want to risk both the city and the county suffering in the long run because everyone now thinks McMillin can solve anything in a single bound.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T16:43:55-06:00

ID

75624

Comment

Just to piggyback on eyerah's comments I've never been under the assumption that Sheriff Mac was going to try to full manage both departments, but would instead hand the day-to-day operation of JPD to someone like Vance. Then why not make Lee Vance police chief? Appointing him police chief was a feel good measure to assure the public that an experienced law enforcement ADMINISTRATOR was in charge. Of course it was. And that is ironic in a town that go so bent out of shape when the former police chief tried to explain that perceptions are not reality. But you can't dismiss the fact that not everyone—including people like Robert Johnson—are not romanced by the perception of McMillin, and are more concerned about the reality of having the chief of a capitol city and the sheriff of Hinds County be the same person. That discussion needs to be had, and in a serious way. As it is, a lot of assumptions are being made, and we've been down that road. That's how we got here.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T16:47:36-06:00

ID

75625

Comment

I believe Memphis/Shelby County, TN has the same set up. I read the Commercial Appeal. I've never read anything negative about it. I also have a few friends in law enforcement there. I've never heard them say anything negative either. McMillin is quite an organized and methodical person. On top of that he has one of the best in the state working for him as his Chief Deputy/Undersheriff, Col Jim Wallace.

Author

JMK

Date

2007-11-28T16:47:41-06:00

ID

75626

Comment

One rather obvious point: Like it or not, McMillin-as-chief has symbolic value that other candidates don't have. A halfway competent job by a well-known, no-nonsense, white outsider equals "turning this thing around." The same performance by a black career officer equals "maybe not quite as bad as it used to be." It's not a pleasant fact, but if you want residents and business to stay or return, it bears consideration.

Author

laughter

Date

2007-11-28T17:29:03-06:00

ID

75627

Comment

It is certainly shortsighted.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T17:31:51-06:00

ID

75628

Comment

Donna, I guess sometimes we just have to agree to disagree. I respect your opinion . . . and, of course, your right to be wrong on occasion !!!! (LOL) I also think it is healthy, however, to have this dialogue to make sure that all of us have looked at all angles and that those of us fully supporting the proposal haven't overlooked something out of our desperation to fix the problem. Nevertheless, I think you should step back and look at the bloggers on this strand. They are not strangers to your site and generally have offered serious and thoughtful comments and dialogue on issues of public importance. They have offered here what I think to be thoughtful observations about the proposal. I think their viewpoints deserve more than short shrift. At this point, I'm sifting through all of the facts and trying to be logical and not emotional. The sheer weight of the evidence so far suggests to me that there is much, much more potentially good about this proposal than bad. If you were my client, I'd say make a list with two columns, one for pros and one for cons. Maybe you should consider doing that. I'm not saying Mac is a savior or that this proposal is perfect. But, at the end of the day, we need to make the best decision with the best data we have available and give it a shot. If it doesn't work, then there's nothing to keep us from changing it. But we'll never know if it will work if we don't give it a try.

Author

Pops

Date

2007-11-28T17:37:25-06:00

ID

75629

Comment

At this point, I'm sifting through all of the facts and trying to be logical and not emotional. The sheer weight of the evidence so far suggests to me that there is much, much more potentially good about this proposal than bad. If you were my client, I'd say make a list with two columns, one for pros and one for cons. Maybe you should consider doing that. I tell you, I'm not as concerned with Mac, himself, trying on both hats for a while. If this were just about him, that wouldn't be an issue. And, frankly, I don't want an election in Hinds right now. We need the jailer free of conflicts to do his duty in case any city officials need to be processed. ;-) My concern is that this is an end-run to consolidated government and that, if the city and county are going to consolidate, then we need a lot of public discussion and fair warning before that happens. I prefer not to wake up a year from now and have someone say "Well, we've already consolidated JPD and the Sheriff's office, so there's no going back now."

Author

Todd Stauffer

Date

2007-11-28T18:18:42-06:00

ID

75630

Comment

And, Pops, you've gotta cut us some slack for being a little wary of this. If it's on the up-and-up, it's pretty much the first decision Melton has had anything to do with in about 2.5 years that didn't have some questionable angle to it...

Author

Todd Stauffer

Date

2007-11-28T18:20:45-06:00

ID

75631

Comment

iTodd, what makes you think this was Melton's decision! I know it wasn't his original idea. And, all you have to do is look at his face on the press conference tapes to realize that he's not as enthralled with the recommendation as you guys seem to assume. After all, it WILL be the end of his law enforcement antics. And, he realizes that Mac will not for a minute hesitate to arrest him if he violates the law on Mac's watch. You JFP guys are smart and hardworking. You've been snooping around the edges of the rumors of potential federal indictments hanging out there for Melton for months, and, all of sudden, with this appointment, the indictment rumors have stopped. Maybe there's a connection with these issues, maybe not. I really don't know the answer, but it sure would be interesting to know if there is. As for consolidating services, you need to understand that ANY consolidation (including of law enforcement) will take joint action in the future by the Board of Supervisors and the City Council. The dialogue and debate on the efficacy of such consolidation issues is therefore preserved. If this experiment turns out to be successful, then perhaps we should look at consolidation of services seriously. If we could remove the politics from both bodies, there are some enormous savings and improvements in delivery of governmental services that could be accomplished through consolidation of a host of routine governmental services (water, sewer, sanitation, economic development, purchasing, etc. However, I wouldn't hold my breath that such a move is possible in my lifetime, except perhaps at a snail's pace. Therefore, in the end, it could very well be that the only thing we have here is a narrow window of an opportunity, simply because of Mac's personality and unique abilities, to attempt to heal the ills of JPD, for the betterment of all of greater Jackson. So, let's ask all the right questions and keep digging and searching for better ways to "build the mousetrap." But, in this instance, don't look for a conspiracy behind every tree, or some kind of nefarious WPS (I'm really not so sure who that is in Jackson any more) plot to try to keep control. Let's keep our eye on the ball . . . will this single act help move along the agenda of a better JPD? I personally think it will and that's why I support it. But, then again, I don't have a vote on the City Council.

Author

Pops

Date

2007-11-28T19:05:52-06:00

ID

75632

Comment

Then why not make Lee Vance police chief? Err, wasn't it offered to him and he reportedly turned it down since Melton wouldn't meet his terms regarding Recio? Apparently Mac was willing to put up with keeping Recio before this recent blowup about the payroll.

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-11-28T19:30:07-06:00

ID

75633

Comment

I have to agree with Pops on this one. And, I don't think we will have to worry about people, like Christopher Walker bitching that the Chief won't take his calls! ;-) But, I agree with iTodd too. We have to keep our eyebrowes raised until we see sustained - sound - decisions coming from City Hall.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-28T19:59:27-06:00

ID

75634

Comment

Generally speaking, I think it's pragmatic to question anything that Frank Melton does with or without him being manipulated by Dale Danks or whoever. I think I'm a tad bid more concerned if we are mixing Frank's volatile personality with that of some back rooms deals. The fact that is might not have been his decision is problematic. The fact that it was Melton's idea is problematic. Frank does not have any history of making sound or reasonable decisions. People like McMillian. It does "feel good". That does not make it right or feasible in any way. I'd love for the appointment of McMillian to fix everything wrong with the JPD but it's not going to. We've all heard the rumors about qualified people turning Frank down because he wouldn't let them be "Chief". What has taken place that will allow his former enemy to run things the way he see it? Why is everything all roses an sunshine?

Author

msgrits

Date

2007-11-28T20:08:13-06:00

ID

75635

Comment

I agree with what Pops said about stepping back and looking at the situation. The article above is just an editorial and not fact. No one can be right all the time. I have concerns of my own about a consolidated city/county goverment, but I think Mac is a good choice for the immediate task at hand. Also, you keep mentioning the post Robert Johnson made. Have you verified that it was really him?

Author

jackbauer

Date

2007-11-28T20:44:11-06:00

ID

75636

Comment

McMillian hasn't been confimed yet and I can already see positive changes in the police department. You really have to try hard to look past the same group of brown nosers or chief groupies that have reared their ugly heads to tap dance for the new chief, in hopes of getting brownie points or a promotion. I just pray Mac has the right people talking in his ear to warn him about the snakes. The real test for Frank was allowing McMillian to demote Recio and keeping his mouth shut. This let's me know Frankie really does not have a choice in Mcmillian being the new Chief.

Author

classy

Date

2007-11-28T20:45:49-06:00

ID

75637

Comment

Jack, That comment from Johnson was also printed in this week's JFP in story that Adam did. Adam wouldn't print anything like that he hadn't verified.

Author

msgrits

Date

2007-11-28T20:52:05-06:00

ID

75638

Comment

Msgrits, damn good questions. Unfortunately, I agree that all is not roses and sunshine, and won't be even if Mac is confirmed. It will, nonetheless, be a good move for the citizens of all of Jackson, in my humble opinion. If you know Mac at all and you have read the MOU between Melton and Mac, you can see that the backroom "deal" is pretty simple. Mac becomes the sole authority on city law enforcement and the Mayor keeps out. Mac will not compromise his integrity or jeopardize his legacy of a long career of outstanding and unvarnished performance in law enforcement at this point in his life. Once Mac is confirmed, I would expect there to be dramatic change, for the better, and the Mayor, whether he believes it or not, understands it or not, or likes it or not, will be powerless to do anything about it, even if it means his close confidantes don't get the special treatment that he wants them to have. The confirmation hearing should focus on assuring that Mac has the authority needed to do the job without mayoral interference. If it doesn't work that way, then Mac should and will walk. And the citizens of Jackson will be the losers.

Author

Pops

Date

2007-11-28T21:01:59-06:00

ID

75639

Comment

Anyone wonder what happened to our 1 day wonder interim Chief Jones ?

Author

classy

Date

2007-11-28T21:06:19-06:00

ID

75640

Comment

Heh. I believe that was Robert Johnson, and if I was sitting in Johnson's shoes I'd think the same way. Johnson is a professional, not a politician and needs to be listened to. On the other hand, you need politicians to run a government, and sometimes what is the "professional" opinion isn't always the best for the citizens. Thats why we have politicians. And, while some of us can disagree with Itodd/Ladd on this, do any of us want them to put on blinders and not explore other options? The opposition to Mac here isn't venomous, but based on some reasoned opinions, even if some of us disagree. Pops I agree with mostly, but I'm getting the impression that JFP is playing devil's advocate here, which is fine, no point in trying to dress that duck. As to "permanent" consolidation, I don't see that happening unless the sheriff builds a bigger power base and I'm not sure how Mac can do that given what he has to work with. If the Sheriff was the Mayor of Jackson then I'd see a problem, but as the offices have some natural conflict I think the citizens are set up to be served and not the other way around.

Author

GLewis

Date

2007-11-28T21:07:05-06:00

ID

75641

Comment

Pops, I am also very concerned that he can't handle both jobs. It's just too much for one man(woman) let alone one man with health problems and wife with health problems. It's a little like Donna trying to fix the problems of the Clarion Ledger while running the JFP and iTood is suffering severe carpel tunel...trying not to make the iTodd to bad off in my hypothetical:) Anywho my point is that he's got a lot going on personally and professionally and now he's expected to fix a department in turmoil. Isn't the jail still overcrowded?

Author

msgrits

Date

2007-11-28T21:29:34-06:00

ID

75642

Comment

**Believe it or not, this proposal has been in the works for a year, and it didn't originate with Dale Danks, (even though he talked about the concept during his own administration as Mayor)** <--Pops 4:12 pm If that's true, shouldn't we all be concerned about a handful of people plotting such a monumental change in the dark? Moreover, even if it was only 'decided' on a mere one hour before Melton, Danks and McMillin held the press conference to announce it, shouldn't we be offended that it was not openly discussed between the City of Jackson and Hinds County? We've been told that this proposal is not contrary to state statute. So why the shroud of secrecy? We've been told (by the Attorney General and former Chief Justice of the MS Supreme Court) that such an arrangement is tantamount to an 'interlocal agreement' pursuant to state statute. So why weren't the elected leaders of those two entities involved in an open and transparent the process, especially when they will HAVE TO APPROVE the interlocal agreement? I am totally offended by the spuriousness of the way the entire thing was handled. Again I ask: why the secrecy? That said, I too supported McMillin earlier this month. Now, I feel that my vote was misplaced--embezzled, actually--because I voted for him to be sheriff, not sheriff today and Chief of Police tonight, or next week. I am not ready to subordinate the sanctity of open, honest government in order to provide an unwitting PR boost to a woefully incompetent Mayor who seems hell bent on destroying our city. And I'm disappointed that McMillin was a part of it.

Author

Kacy

Date

2007-11-28T21:36:39-06:00

ID

75643

Comment

Wow, what great discussion on all threads tonight. I'm too tired to say much now, but I will respond to "jackbauer": Of course, we confirmed that Robert Johnson actually posted that. We confirmed his identity way back when he first started posted on the site (just like I know who you are). I wouldn't allow quotes in stories, whether editorial or news stories, without confirmation of identity, for God's sake. We're not amateurs here. Also, all of our opinion columns and editorials are factchecked—all facts stated are verified, so rest easy about what you read in the JFP. See Adam's story this week about McMillin for more from Johnson. Doug Anderson's quotes are pretty intriguing as well. I'm not an Anderson fan, but he should have been called. All the secrecy—especially if it went on for a full year—is unsettling at best. And that's not devil's advocacy. Otherwise, carry on. Great dialogue.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-28T22:08:38-06:00

ID

75644

Comment

I don't mind that they went around the HCBOS. If any one group would have raised holy heck if they caught wind of it - it is those jokers. The fact that Supervisors in MS Counties have so much power over the Cities in those counties is counter productive to municipalities like ours, those on the Coast, Meridian, Hattisburg Oxford, Tupelo, Southhaven, etc... I'm really tired of buttering the HCBOS's bread, and only getting crumbs back.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-28T23:07:19-06:00

ID

75645

Comment

As I said before, the McMillin to JPD thing was so that Jackson wouldn't lose those millions in grant dollars for not having enough officers. McMillin now can deputize the whole Hinds SO department as JPD officers, effecitvely raising JPD's officer numbers by hundreds and therefore meeting the number of officers requirement to get that money.

Author

LambdaRisen

Date

2007-11-28T23:29:05-06:00

ID

75646

Comment

Ok, here’s my last post. You young folks are wearing me out! Since I injected an element of "secrecy" unwittingly into this thread, let me clarify my post. Taking the initiative, as private citizens with absolutely no portfolio and no more standing than Kacy, Ladd, Msgrits, or any other bloggers here, a couple of us Jacksonians started doing legal research on the issue and started talking, discretely, to selected council members and some leading citizens in the city as a possible way to shore up the city, in the event that Melton was convicted (and thus removed from office). Let me repeat, we acted as private citizens with no more clout, no more authority or influence than any of you and with absolutely no expectations of any private gain. What we did, though, was get off our butts, stop complaining and start looking for solutions. We didn't even talk to Mac in the beginning. And, of course, when we did talk to him, he was not interested unless there was a total political hands off. Yes, we did act "in secrecy," frankly because we did not want the idea to get killed by the Meltonite politicians before we even knew if it was legal, practical, or potentially effective. Some us of call that using good judgment, discretion and common sense, and to cast it as conspiratorial is, quite frankly, a bit juvenile. (Sorry, that's a little harsh.) Thank goodness some other public minded citizens that DO have Melton’s ear took our idea and ran with it, for whatever reason and convinced Melton, for whatever reason, to go for it. Good for them! I am thankful that we have the possibility out there for discussion and debate on a creative, non-conventional, potential solution to a major problem. And, I don't care who gets credit. So, let's look at the merits of the proposal and forget about this conspiracy BS stuff.

Author

Pops

Date

2007-11-28T23:54:16-06:00

ID

75647

Comment

One of the other things former Chief Robert Johnson stated was that crime is up in some areas of Hinds County. We've heard lots about Jackson's crime rate, but what about Hinds County? What are the statistics - what has increased, and where? With the new open information policy for JPD, including Comstat, it would be good to take a look at the county in terms of statistics given the discussion of consolidation and hands on leadership. There was an interesting comment made about professional versus politician. I'm not sure if I understand the issue as it relates to this topic, but I can say as one who worked closely with Robert Johnson at MDOC, he knew where good professional knowledge and skills were necessary to help politicians create public policy that was positive for taxpayers, not just some PR headline that took the issue off the table for debate - or even worse, created a quick-fix, but long-term disasterous solution to problems for that immediate feel good moment, or need to get the vote and be reelected. And sometimes, it takes a professional to tell a politician "NO," and be consistent in that message, knowing that the facts don't support the politicians need to craft public policy that can be more feel good than actual do good. Or heck, for that matter, just speak up - like the Chief Sheriff did with the Mayor at the press conference. I am interested in learning more about the theory of how a politicians decisions are better than a professionals, particularly in this issue. Maybe if consolidation is not the real issue here, or the Chief Sheriff move the means to this end, then we might need to consider the Chief of Police being an elected position. But doesn't that still keep the position in a executive role and not legislative, or public policy making role?

Author

JenniferGriffin

Date

2007-11-29T00:07:51-06:00

ID

75648

Comment

Pops,How could you possibly know how much standing or sway I have in the community? You are kind of making blind statements about influence without knowing anything about me personally-can't speak for anyone else. You are assuming that we've all go equal footing and we don't. I can absolutely promise you that if I call some people in this town they will listen to me and they won't listen to you and vice versa. I'm sorry but it's hard for me to believe, if this is true, that you just some average joe. What you have detailed, might not be a conspiracy but I find it disturbing. Again, I ask. Why has Frank refused to let qualified people run the department but now he's willing to let his former enemy have autonomy? Why is his volitile personality now all groovy with this plan? It's insulting to the people of Jackson, qualified members of the police department and the citizen of Hinds County. Again, I ask how McMillian is going to pull this off while giving proper attention to the city and county?

Author

msgrits

Date

2007-11-29T00:27:31-06:00

ID

75649

Comment

**Taking the initiative, as private citizens with absolutely no portfolio and no more standing than Kacy, Ladd, Msgrits, or any other bloggers here, a couple of us Jacksonians started doing legal research on the issue and started talking, discretely, to selected council members and some leading citizens in the city as a possible way to shore up the city, in the event that Melton was convicted (and thus removed from office).** <-- Pops on Nov 28 11:54 pm With all due respect, Pops, that feeble rationale is bull$hit! Who anointed you and your cronies to act under cover of darkness to speak with "selected city council members", and thus, to speak for me? Who selected YALL? Or them? And how can you say that you acted as a private citizen with no more clout than any other private citizen? Ever heard of citizen participation? Whatcha know about community input? Can you say 'tyranny'? And why do the very people who blindly installed an idiot in the Mayor's office now find it necessary to tiptoe around him? Oh, I forgot. He's the 800 pound gorilla in the room. Call your motives and actions what you will or may. I'll stick with calling them what they are: spurious.

Author

Kacy

Date

2007-11-29T01:15:44-06:00

ID

75650

Comment

I really don't see a need to call a person who is investing millions of dollars to redevelop the oldest, and best, landmark in the City a crony. This is the same person that has butted heads with Melton on his project, and as atty. for the JPS Board. He's always been straightforward on this board, just like Robert Johnson. That is worth something even if you disagree with him. At the very least, if this experiment doesn't work out, we will have had a 'friend' in JPD who can confirm how bad it is without the smokescreen Anderson and Melton ran everyday. This back room deal sounds like it was done by people a bit more favorable to Jackson than the group that launched Melton for Mayor. ;-)

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-11-29T08:10:10-06:00

ID

75651

Comment

Wow. Tough room!

Author

Jeff Lucas

Date

2007-11-29T08:40:05-06:00

ID

75652

Comment

I'm watching and listening here more than anything as this gets more interesting. The only thing I'll say at this point, Pops, is that I know the identity of a lot of the people here—and you are not necessarily the oldest one, nor is this a group of juveniles raising these questions. I suggest leaving out the condescension part because it will not help your argument. To the others, Pops has not hidden his identity here in the past. I won't out him on this thread, though. I'll leave it to him to tell everyone who he is, and he is indeed respected in the community as are many of the rest of you, and other commentators like former Chief Robert Johnson. I'm beginning to wonder if it is time for the JFP to sponsor a town-hall meeting on this topic. Thoughts? Meantime, please continue the discussion here.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-29T09:06:26-06:00

ID

75653

Comment

Also, Pops, now that you have raised the spectre of a group of people working on getting McMillin as chief for a year, you may as well reveal who they are/were because I doubt people are going to let it go between now and his confirmation. I certainly believe your motives were pure—I'm a fan, as you know—but the issue of secrecy in such things is hard for the public to swallow, and as Pike alluded to, too many backroom deals and schemes got us Melton in the first place. Now that it's revealed that a group of people were working on this for a year, you can hardly blame the people for wanting to know who they were. And wanting to know who lobbied for McMillin to be both police chief and sheriff is not being a conspiracy nut. One question: Had the sheriff agreed to be chief when he re-ran for sheriff? That seems to be a pertinent question because, for me, the issue is not whether McMillin should be chief—I think that's a great idea—it's whether he should hold both positions, especially after his county voters just elected him to be their full-time sheriff. I'm not convinced on that one, yet.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-29T09:14:10-06:00

ID

75654

Comment

Kacy wrote: With all due respect, Pops, that feeble rationale is bull$hit! Who anointed you and your cronies to act under cover of darkness to speak with "selected city council members", and thus, to speak for me? Who selected YALL? Or them? And how can you say that you acted as a private citizen with no more clout than any other private citizen? Ever heard of citizen participation? Whatcha know about community input? Um, Kacy, I believe it is the right, and perhaps the duty, of citizens to speak with their elected officials upon issues, especially where they have professional expertise that might be useful. It's not like our city council members are intimidating and unapproachable. Call their offices, and set up a meeting, if you're that concerned. I'd say that this is a fine example of citizen input.

Author

kate

Date

2007-11-29T09:15:32-06:00

ID

75655

Comment

Also, I look forward to responses to JenniferGriffin's last post. It is certainly not a juvenile one.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-11-29T09:36:18-06:00

ID

75656

Comment

Donna, Can I be a part of the JFP town-hall meeting? I would love the oppertunity to discuss this and other topics (crime and drugs). Larry

Author

Larry

Date

2007-11-29T10:24:04-06:00

ID

75657

Comment

And if Larry's on board then I MUST be a part of it. a town-hall meeting may just be called for if..its going to produce real results(unlike the Farish mtg) and isnt handicapped by time restraints(like the lyrics in hip hop mtg at jackson mall)

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-11-29T10:53:24-06:00

ID

75658

Comment

This idea is nothing nes; nothing developed, generated of thoughtout by Danks or anyone else taking credit. This was done in Tennessee 40 years ago. I'm just suprised that MS would bring the idea back and actually think that citizens should feel proud of haveing back door deals worked out. This is absolutely not a democratic process. This is my problem with the whole thing. The problem is melton. I will say that a million times. he should have had his felonies stayed and we would not be at this fork in the road. I agree with all of the positive acolades for McMillin; however, I don't think that he should be posted as the great white hope and the only hope for Jackson to be able to get a handle on crime and develop the police force on the road-map from the Lindy/Maple study. Johnson comissioned that group and Chief Moore was following it to the letter. We have allowed melton to make a mokery of the well thinking people of this City. The Council is impotent and I don't want to listen to Chrisler talk about being out of town for the vote on the 10th. He works for McMillin which is a conflict of interest. This was a conflict even before McMillin was selected Chief. I could be wrong. Legal minds please check me on this one. According to MS law, for such an action as in the appointment of McMillin as Police Chief and continue to hold an elected position as Hinds Co. Sheriff, a Legislative action must take place.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-12-04T13:42:07-06:00

ID

75659

Comment

There are several mispelled words in my post. I do know better. Don't dog me out too badly about it. Lately, I've been posting with preview. Not good! LOL

Author

justjess

Date

2007-12-04T13:51:04-06:00

ID

75660

Comment

justjess, I knew chief Moore, he was/is a very nice guy, with that said he was not the answer for crime and drugs for the city of Jackson. Examples upon reguest. Regards, Larry

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-05T01:00:48-06:00

ID

75661

Comment

Compare Moore to Anderson/Mac right now.... Almost 500 officers, and regular recruiting classes. Crime was way way down compared to now. You were safer in Jackson three years ago than today. As safe as 1987? No. But, safer than the wonderful 90's we barely lived through. Regular grant award program that actually brought in grants. And, houses were still selling within 6 to 10 months. There are less people today in Jackson than just three years ago. Now - not so much. Sorry, those are the facts Larry. Get your head out of the clouds.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-12-05T08:15:08-06:00

ID

75662

Comment

I'm sure Larry can give examples of Moore's weaknesses. But context is important here. It is near impossible to get a police chief in Jackson because The Clarion-Ledger and Melton and his Metro Crime Commission have for so long played politics with the position. (I doubt most, or at least some, of the MCC members even knew what they were doing when they following Melton's lead on this.) When Jimmy Wilson left, after the dust-up over the Juvenile Detention Center and not being able to get local people to care about what was happening to kids here, JPD ranks was up, and many problems were being solved. It's all right in the news archives. But he was arrogant and dared question the power structure. That's not acceptable.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-05T10:36:22-06:00

ID

75663

Comment

Im gonna have to dispute on one "fact" pike.. Since '87 seems to be a year in which you believe things were at an all-time low. I dont know if you were, but I was here in '87 and lived through it. And although it may not have touched you where you were nestled, the years of 85-89 were some of the worst in Jackson's history when it came to gang violence in the city. I lived through it. It came in like the perfet storm rose to its apex in about '88 and thanks to a lot of intervention in the community quelled about '90. And THAT you can go back and check yourself. Kids were being jumped, shot, and killed because of gang affiliation and at that age kids 10-25 couldnt wear red or blue in this city or tilt their hats left or right. We had a gang problem that almost rivaled LA or Chicago. And that coupled with the introduction of crack to gang members as a new source of money made for a deadly cocktail. It was killing season during those times and those a couple years older and a couple years younger than me can vouch for that. '87 safe...PLEASE. those were some of the most fearful times I can recall in this city. Its funny to me that this crime issue doesnt seem to become really an "issue" at all until it regularly affects the white community here. In 87, I don't doubt that this city was probably safe and white folks could disassociate themselves from the "crime-ridden" inner city. I don't doubt that you thought it to be safer than now. But Im telling you it wasnt! Sure gangs still exist here and recent events speak to a possible resurgence but Im proud to say during those times we averted disaster and didnt lose more young men than we did. But only now that some white folks are being touched by it has it become a hot-button topic. The fact that you bookmark '87 as one of the safer years you can remember speaks to that fact.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-12-05T11:08:46-06:00

ID

75664

Comment

Larry, I don't know what kind of yard stick or information resource you will use to rate Chief Moore but how do you respond to the fact that the crime rate was steadily going down. The nearly 100 murders that Mayor Ditto faced during his last year in office was cut in half. Now when you speak of drugs, who exactly is/was a Chief of Police making a difference. That issue is so complex. Why? Could it be that some of the people who actually finance drug deals are untouchables? How has melton stayed above the radar in spite of all of his crimes? Given the chance, I believe that Moore could have done more and the blue-print for his operation was already set up through the Lynder/Maples study. This and prehaps many things you or I will never know because he was not afforded the chance. The Johnson Administration was dumped for the melton circus.

Author

justjess

Date

2007-12-05T11:31:07-06:00

ID

75665

Comment

Kamikaze, I certainly was here in the 1985 - 1990 period and I do remember the "dance team" explaination for gangs and colors. I also remember that Danks set up a Gang Suppression Unit at JPD and that Ditto did away with this unit upon taking office. But, you are right, I didn't live in the inner city and certainly did not experience what you describe. I remember around 1992 a child I was close to having a gang member body guard at Chastain. Do we currently have gangs operating in Jackson? I believe so. I also believe they are primarily formed and continued for the purpose of distributing drugs. What are our gang affiliations with other cities' gangs? Who is allowed in each gang? Are they geographic in nature? Please shine some light on this for us. When the news announces that the murder or crime is drug related, is that really drug and gang related?

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2007-12-05T12:39:22-06:00

ID

75666

Comment

Who was on Danks' gang unit?

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-05T12:47:10-06:00

ID

75667

Comment

I appreciate your "dispute" on my facts Kaze; but, your deeper understanding of the crime problem doesn't detract from what I said. It only pointed out the root of the problems that came to an apex during the early 90's. Then two things happened. Bill Clinton poured money into more police for the whole nation, and Harvey Johnson was able to get people on the police force who could turn the tide back as best they could. Which led to lower violent crimes across the board. Note: I said violent crimes.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-12-05T13:51:54-06:00

ID

75668

Comment

Yes, Chris, gangs certainly still do exist here. They don't exist as they once did. Now its more of a secret society or brotherhood...a way of identifying. Its a lot more low-key but the drug game is definitely its main source of income. The more "glamorous" side of gangbanging was exercised during those rough times '85-90. It was more fights, more shootings involving young folks, more tags on buildings, more kids wearing the colors, more of your stereotypical gang activity. There was a huge influx of kids being sent here from Chicago to live with relatives because they had gotten into trouble at home. (the joke is EVERYBODY in MS has a relative in chicago). They brought with them that gang culture and it proved to be too enticing to kids here and they latched on to it. and kids with somethiing to prove as you know are gonna go that extra mile to belong. Hell, I was in one until the mood turned increasingly violent and the first "official" gang killing took place in the old Jackson Mall. The police couldnt control it, they only contained it occasionally. And yes it did lead to a special gang unit.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-12-05T14:11:42-06:00

ID

75669

Comment

Here Chris, its Vice Lords and Folks(or Black Gangster Disciples). Incidentally both factions were started by men born in Mississippi whose families moved to Chicago(and they were both chronicled on BET's series American gangster..Jeff Fort and Larry Hoover respectively). They're chicago gangs. An even deeper discussion can come from going back to what folks call the "Black Exodus' out of the south during the industrial revolution where southern blacks migrated north many just taking the highway to the next northernmost point..For a lot of Mississippians it was Illinois. You have the crips and bloods who originated on the west coast and have come as close to us as Louisiana and have evn migrated to new york. But along I-55 it has remained vice lord/folks territory. Drug related crimes are not necessarily gang related. everyone in it isnt in a gang per se' but a lot are. the materialism of the world now has turned gang focus on their profit margin as well. And as I travel performing Im seeing a re-birth in a lot of these smaller towns. ESPECIALLY the Delta. In fact, there was a piece on it a few sundays ago in the CL. Its almost to the tipping point again there. Usually where you see the absence of jobs and an increase in poverty or lack of access to education the climate is ripe for gangs to form. for a lot of these small town kids, it provides the family structure and "job" that they wouldnt get otherwise. I applaud how Jackson actually buckled down a regained its composure cuz it was on its way to getting bad. Around that time clubs, skating rinks, schools, stores, you name it had special policies restricting certain colors, bandanas, hat tilted to either side etc. some spots keep them to this day. but all in all, Id say Jackson is over it. but the smaller delta and coast towns(especially in the wake of Katrina) need to be alerted cuz its making a return.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-12-05T14:25:14-06:00

ID

75670

Comment

I was doing research for a book and thought this was very interesting. People don't understand that drugs do not know color. So, it always seemed odd to me why it seemed like drugs were so much more of a problem in black neighborhoods than others. It is complex, but it all boils down to money. Any community drugs are allowed to proliferate in will fall. The attached link, if true, is dispicable. It basically tells us what some people think of the black community. People should have gone to jail for this type of thing because things do not exist in a vacuum. Things spread, even to MS. We could fight crime and drugs if the good guys stayed on the good side to fight the bad guys. http://www.gwu.edu/~nsarchiv/NSAEBB/NSAEBB2/nsaebb2.htm

Author

Goldenae

Date

2007-12-05T15:28:21-06:00

ID

75671

Comment

I agree Golden. Drugs know no color and neither does money or opportunity supposedly. But somehow they are often in short supply in African American communities. And a lot of times it isnt from lack of trying. Ive been screaming for the past two years around here that every major problem affecting the black community is symptomatic of a bigger issue...poverty or the effort to fight it off. Folks ask why are there so many drugs, gangs, so much crime, etc. Why are professional athletes and entertainers targets? Why are dope dealers the role models for disenfrnachised youths...simple M-O-N-E-Y. Operating, living, and being comfortable in a Bush administration has become increasingly harder to do without money. The bar has been raised to where you really have to be making a healhty salary to be able to NOT live from check to check. Materialism is flaunted in the faces of young folks and they almost feel no worth if they dont have money in their pocket. You cant eat. You cant get a car, you cant buy clothes, and consequently you cant impress girls(simplistic but true)Hence, they look for the easy track when conventional methods produce no results. Sean Taylor was killed simply because he had money, his assailants didnt, and he was supposedly an easy target for a quick score. These kids are not inherently evil(a point must always argue with conservative pundits). they are most times hungry, broke, and lack the role model to put them on the right path.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-12-05T15:53:43-06:00

ID

75672

Comment

good deal...well put bradley...well put

Author

skipp

Date

2007-12-05T16:27:23-06:00

ID

75673

Comment

Of course they're not inherently evil, no more than corporate executives who rob shareholders and employees. Turn that into a column, Kaze. People need to hear this.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-05T16:33:24-06:00

ID

75674

Comment

Kaze- "Ali" wrote a column about that way back when. Actually, I made the exact same point you just did. http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/comments.php?id=6852_0_7_0_C I love posting in world where a well known rapper and a white girl from the MS Delta "get" the same thing.

Author

Lori G

Date

2007-12-05T16:34:58-06:00

ID

75675

Comment

And I love giving y'all the forum to do it in. ;-) This needs to be said over and over again until people start listening. Of course, too many people are still too blinded by skin color to even try to listen.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-05T16:36:42-06:00

ID

75676

Comment

Kaze, you are right. In a country that flaunts and values excess, its hard for people that live in poverty not to want those things as well. Jason Whitlock(black guy) wrote an article shortly after Sean Taylor's death basically saying that his death probably had something to do with him being a thug. Turns out, like you said, it was about greed/money. Some of the guys that attempted to rob his home heard that he was rich and they wanted to take some of that. Also, as you said in an earlier post, it does not concern people much until it is outside of the black community. When you have nests of poverty, there is going to be crime, drugs, etc. A lot of people do not understand that one of the worst stats coming out of the Bush Administration is that the rich are getting richer and the poor getting poorer. Conservatives would have you believe that if you just enable them to be rich, they will let some trickle down to the poor folks. That is probably the worse economic strategy to fight poverty. I have lived in all black and mostly white neighborhoods and there is a distinct difference. In some black neighborhoods, you can't call the cops or the cops are just as bad as the criminals. White America does not get to see that side of society, so they do not understand it or even believe it exists. Its all a big cycle, nothing exist in a vacuum. If the state won't elect a qualified guy like Gary Anderson, dont you think that another brother trying to get jobs with some of those same voters is going to face obstacles?

Author

Goldenae

Date

2007-12-05T16:37:09-06:00

ID

75677

Comment

Here it is People that do not have anything, therefore having nothing to lose, and that do not feel invested in the system of which they are a part, will denounce that system and all of its moral ambiguity. This means crime. If we push people into a corner and tell them they must work for whatever they get, then afford them no work, all the while bombarding them with materialistic symbols of what they should be getting, there will be crime. You tell them to build a house, and you give them no tools. How does a person discern between which is the path (s)he is supposed to tread? We make the options so disparate and then expect people to choose the one with fewer rewards. If I were 13 and poor, why would I choose to work three jobs to pay for an education when I can sell drugs and make the same money? I wouldn’t. Yes, some would say that selling drugs is wrong. I would say our culture teaches our children that selling drugs isn’t wrong because it makes the most money. The very fact that we live in a culture where money is all-knowing and all-seeing makes it even more difficult to validate this “bootstrap” path to poor Americans. If money is the one thing valued above all others in our culture, it lowers the probability of people acting according to an internal morality—especially when this internal morality doesn’t have the financial rewards of other readily available paths. We expect the poor populations to do “right” based upon an internal moral code, while surrounded by a culture that functions on external sources of rewards. Essentially, we expect the poorest and least educated to perform at a higher moral level than the rest of the population. When people fail at this task, they are then made to feel ashamed. We look down upon them, never realizing we are one paycheck away from this same snide expression. This ability to disassociate only fuels our culture’s incessant belief in “us” and “them.”

Author

Lori G

Date

2007-12-05T16:38:02-06:00

ID

75678

Comment

Example of how we look at things and how society handles situations. Sean Taylor supposedly pulled a gun on some folks he thought stole some four wheelers from his house. He was labeled a thug for life. Bobby Knight who has had all sorts of violent outburst, including choking a kid and most recently shooting bird-shot at some folks is not looked at in that way. I will say this again, black folks don't get a lot of chances to be successful and the mistakes we make count a lot more. Take Bush's life and give it to a black guy and he would never have been Governor, let alone President of the United States.

Author

Goldenae

Date

2007-12-05T16:45:28-06:00

ID

75679

Comment

Pike - I certainly do NOT "have my head in the clouds." Did you read into something in my post? I did not compare Moore to Anderson or Johnson to Melton; I simply made a statement of fact based off of having worked with Chief Moore and having managed JPD Detectives that were assigned to my (HIDTA) drug task force. How long? Four plus years. Was Chief Moore a better Officer/Chief than Shirleen Anderson? Yes, in my opinion, but being realistic that's not saying allot. Chief Moore was very wise realizing his department, JPD had limited resources so he "farmed out" allot of very qualified detectives to federally funded Task Forces (DEA, FBI, Marshals and BATF). He did this so the feds could train his detectives; provide funds to purchase evidence (drugs, guns and catch fugitives). He then received resources (man power) from all other “participating” agencies (Federal, State and Local) that belonged to said task force. Chief Moore was also a master of the "press conference." He loved them. Why not? He should have. No better way to tell the voters and put out the perception that he and his department were "out" working the streets to keep the citizens safe. Head in the clouds? I don't think so Pike..............but you can have your opinion all is well. Regards, Larry. Almost forgot Donna you make a very valid point about politics getting in the way of Jackson having a viable non partisan Chief. Justjess again I was not supporting the Melton/Anderson administration over the Johnson/Moore administration. Kamikaze, as always I enjoy your unique perspective and point of view. We really do need to have that “open forum” about drugs and crime.

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-05T21:02:45-06:00

ID

75680

Comment

I guess it is a bad thing to be good at talking to the press, and enjoying your job. Speaking of press conferences... If by politics you mean increasing the police force, bringing crime down, and utilizing other law enforcement agencies; then that is some fine politicking there. I seem to recall your stellar choice for mayor said he was going to use ALL law enforcement agencies through his MBN experience, and lock up criminals in any jail he wanted - cause he's a Barney Fife in Jefferson Davis County by damn! So, what's the problem with Moore doing the same thing? Of course, this is from a man who would ruin the careers of two MBN agents over false allegations; but, I guess that cool with you? Call me when the police chief is elected. Politics? Whatever!

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-12-05T21:51:09-06:00

ID

75681

Comment

Pike, you're not talking to Larry Nesbit. You're talking to someone with a very different perspective and experience level in law enforcement. You should know that.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-05T22:02:52-06:00

ID

75682

Comment

Pike, What seems to be the problem? I have made nothing but honest observations without slander. I NEVER said Chief Moore was bad, matter of fact I said I liked him. I even gave examples of the good things he did while at JPD (news conferences, cooperation and multi-agency task forces). Did you not read my entire comment? How can you put words in my mouth calling Melton "my canidate?" Truth be known, I never voted for Melton. Pike, what business is of yours who I voted for anyway? Is it not who a person votes for that individuals choice and ultimately that persons right? I sure think it is. Come on Pike you are truely better than this........just come out and tell me and the readers why you are upset with me. Lord knows I can sure take it. I wish you well, Larry.

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-06T00:59:57-06:00

ID

75683

Comment

Why wasn't Lee Vance chosen as Police Chief, cause Lee didn't sign off on the promotions was the reason, and MAC didn't either so what was Frank's point, It was a political move. I have nothing against Mcmillan but Lee Vance should have been chosen as police chief, I know in the white community they feel more comfortable with a White man running things its the culture, but has he been co chief law enforcement man in Jackson for twenty years, he is the sheriff over Jackson. And in the black community some blacks have thet mentality to That i white man can run things better. Dale Danks is behind all of this and i hope we get a new mayor and police chief in two years. Mac cant stay in duel roles for the next ten years its not possible we need someone dedicated to one job. Yall might say Mac is a proven leader and he brings stability, No what he brings is his skin tone (White) and in America and in Mississippi especially thats all the qualifications you need, people feel like you have the knowledge and ability just because you are white, its a shame but tell the truth and shame the devil.

Author

NewJackson

Date

2007-12-06T09:41:23-06:00

ID

75684

Comment

Ladd, I was confusing my Larry's. Oh well.. carry on... The other Larry knows what he says on the radio which is where my comments come from. As far as I know, I have no problems with this ^ Larry.

Author

pikersam

Date

2007-12-06T10:12:02-06:00

ID

75685

Comment

I know, Pike. That's why I pointed it out. ;-) Larry, there is another Larry who has driven Pike, me and some others bonkers for years with his less-than-reasoned talk about Jackson, thugs and building gallows in front of the Capitol, I believe it was. I believe that's where his emotion is coming from.

Author

DonnaLadd

Date

2007-12-06T11:06:50-06:00

ID

75686

Comment

Pike, As always we good! See you in a couple of weeks (December 21), you know the place. And NewJack, you make a very valid point Lee Vance could run JPD. The "line" officers and detectives have a great deal of respect for him. Regards, Larry

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-06T15:57:10-06:00

ID

75687

Comment

Correction........we are good.

Author

Larry

Date

2007-12-06T16:02:36-06:00

ID

75688

Comment

Here we go with the "Race Card" again. Mac was chosen, not because of his skin color, but because Melton can't tell him what to do. What in the world makes you think this was really a Melton choice? Melton choosing Mac of his own free will? Give me a break! Vance is the Chief and Mac is the "SuperChief" and this is not, IMHO, a racial choice. What it accomplishes is to keep Melton's meddling and misuse of the JPD at bay.

Author

ChrisCavanaugh

Date

2007-12-06T16:20:50-06:00

ID

75689

Comment

..."The very fact that we live in a culture where money is all-knowing and all-seeing makes it even more difficult to validate this “bootstrap” path to poor Americans. If money is the one thing valued above all others in our culture, it lowers the probability of people acting according to an internal morality—especially when this internal morality doesn’t have the financial rewards of other readily available paths. We expect the poor populations to do “right” based upon an internal moral code, while surrounded by a culture that functions on external sources of rewards. Essentially, we expect the poorest and least educated to perform at a higher moral level than the rest of the population. When people fail at this task, they are then made to feel ashamed. We look down upon them, never realizing we are one paycheck away from this same snide expression. This ability to disassociate only fuels our culture’s incessant belief in “us” and “them.”... ...AMEN sister AMEN!!!! so nice you GOTTA say it twice. Im gonna keep those words. Couldnt have said them any better.

Author

Kamikaze

Date

2007-12-06T17:30:12-06:00