the Minneapolis Civil Service Commission upheld my December 3^rd , 2013
decision to remove two police officers from the Minneapolis Police
Department following their conduct in Green Bay, Wisconsin last year.
It is never easy to face the decision to terminate one's employment and
I don't take that responsibility lightly. However, please be assured of
my commitment to take every step possible to ensure the public trust
necessary to an effective police force and the community it serves.
This decision is indicative of the Minneapolis Police Department's
continued focus on a culture of accountability. We appreciate the
patience members of the community and members of the MPD have shown
throughout this lengthy process."
Most people remember the incident of two MPD officers drunk and
disorderly and very disrespectful in Green Bay last fall. There is a
serious question of freedom of speech, and I would defend any officer's
right to express themselves. It was not the content of what the
officers said that was so obviously disrespectful to their uniform,
their superior officers and the City of Minneapolis, but it was their
drunken and arrogant manner that marked their expressions as unacceptable.
Congratulations Janee Harteau on having the courage to stand for what is
right in spite of the pressures from the Police Federation.
Ed Felien
Powderhorn