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West Memphis police report says staffing improving; new chief outlines priorities
Summary
The police committee reported 88 of 105 positions filled and seven officers in training; Chief Taylor, newly introduced at the meeting, pledged to build relationships with the community and strengthen the department.
A police committee representative told the West Memphis City Council that the department currently has 88 of 105 authorized positions filled and seven officers in training at the academy, and that the department seeks to reserve funds to outfit five additional patrol vehicles and to replace an aging armored vehicle.
The committee representative said crime rates have decreased compared with the same period last year and described ongoing grant searches and community-outreach program changes aimed at improving public relations.
Mayor Ferguson introduced Police Chief Taylor, who thanked the mayor and pledged to reinforce community ties. "I'm going to do everything I can to make sure to make this choice worthwhile for you guys," Chief Taylor said, introducing his senior staff and naming several long-serving local officers.
Chief Taylor listed members of his leadership team and emphasized a focus on experience and community engagement as the department moves forward. The council did not take immediate budget action on the vehicle requests during the meeting; staff indicated fund reservations and grant efforts were underway.
