WMPC April 19, 2011West Memphis Police Commission Meeting _ ~,/)~~' ~a ~~
Present: Taz Tyrone, Chairman /"
Willis Mondy
James Holt
Lorraine Robinson, Secretary
Press: Ral~Hardin
Chief Dona~d Oakes, Police Rep.
Absent: Phillip Carter
Meeting was called to order at 12:10 pm. Minutes approved with
corrections (pg. two, paragraph 5, change minutes from 77 total
officers on staff to 74) this change was motioned by Mondy, and
seconded by Holt. Change was approved by commission.
• There has been no report from FBI on indictment of officers
accused of criminal offences. The Police Officer is on non
enforcement status, he is serving in administration function.
Ditto (who is contracted with the Police Dept.) has been
moved from Internal Affair to Inspector Eddie West position,
and Inspector West has been moved to Internal Affairs,
because he has experience in the area of Internal Affairs
investigation. (Audio Minutes)
• Holt -Does police officers have the authority to pass school
buses, whether lights are on or not? Oakes -yes, officers
have the authority, but need to do so extremely cautiously.
• Holt - an officer almost hit a little girl while crossing the
street between the buses. (audio)
CHIEF OAKES REPORT
Two officers in the Academy
One officer is in the appeals program
There are three Openings
One Officer took a medical retirement, effective at the end of the
month (April)
Rehired a previous employee (no training was necessary, as he
served in the police department reserve program, keeping his
certification. The only requirement for rehire was a drug test.
(Wesly McArthur is rehire) This rehire saved the city $25,000.00.
CARS AND CAMERAS
The cars and cameras have not been built. they are on order. We
may have cars by July.
METH LAB CLEAN UP
Lab is up and running, less than $5,000.00 is expected to be
spent. Storage issues has been worked out.
OFFICERS TRAVELING WITHOUT LIGHTS AND SIRENS
Patrol Commander reminded officers of caution that is required.
(audio)
HIGH POWERED RIFLES AND SHOTGUNS
Not near as many complaints as before.
(mild discussion on issue) (audio)
Motioned by Robinson, seconded by Holt to adjourn. Meeting
adjourned at 12:30 p.m.
Taz r Chairman
Willis Mondy, Commissioner
,~
ames Holt, Commissioner
Attest by Secreta ~ ~`,
L raine Robi s n