WMPC June 30, 2008West Memphis Police Commission
June 30, 2008
Attending: Councilmembers -Ramona Taylor*, Clarence Davis*, Marco McClendon*,
Lorraine Robinson
WMPD -Andrew Clarksenior
Guests - Arburt Robinson
The minutes of the May meeting were presented as presented.
Under old business, McClendon expressed concern that none of the narcotic cars have
cameras which makes it appear that the WMPD does not want the cameras in the cars.
Davis pointed out the need for the cameras to be concealed. Taylor asked if we could
meet at the WMPD in July so that the police could demonstrate the issues.. Ms.
Robinson asked why there were increased complaints against narcotics officers.
Clarksenior responded this was due to a stronger stand against drugs. McClendon asked
why they were not wearing body mikes? Clarksenior reported that policy states they
must do so.
Under new business, Ms. Robinson requested a forum with police for the general public
in July that would include the city Attorney, Police Officers prior to school starting.
Motion by Taylor, 2nd by Davis. Unanimous vote.
Mr. Robinson rquested the steps for a reserve officer to fill an active police position.
Clarksenior will check and get back to him.
McClendon asked why the two Chiefs do not attend the Police Commission meetings?
Pointed out this disrupts positive communication and that his comment did not reflect on
Clarksenior's representation of the department. Davis responded that the Chiefs are busy
and requested that we should start and end on time so they do not have to waste time
when they attend.
McClendon stated that the City needs to be serious about crime prevention and requested
some community meetings to particularly address tips for crime prevention.
McClendon also brought up the idea of a $2,500 hiring bonus to anyone hired by the
WMPD and living in West Memphis.
McClendon reasserted his belief the Internal Affairs should not answer to the Police
Chief. He questioned the Chief's use of the tape from the previous Council meeting in
the police shift meetings.
Clarksenior distributed his report from Internal Affairs:
Two officers were hired, both were certified officers; no dismissals; no suspensions; no
promotions; no resignations. There were 6 misconduct complaints received, five were
found to be without merit with one allegations ustained and the officer was disciplined.
There are currently 6 vacancies with testing scheduled within the next 2 weeks. Two
officers just graduated from ALETA with one officers leaving for training in July.
Ramona Taylor, Secretary
* denotes Commission member