I was very disappointed to read your opinion column [‘What is consensual?” July 4, 2012] where you portrayed our department as an organization that condones poor behavior and lacks control over the conduct of our officers. Your factless opinions that are not substantiated or supported by any examples give the residents of Forest Park the perception that they have a very unprofessional police department. You are entitled to your opinion, but I request you do research before you provide misinformation to our community.
Over my 41 years as a law enforcement officer, the last 30 years in management positions, I have developed a reputation as a no-nonsense, conscientious and dedicated administrator. During the last nine years as the Forest Park Chief of Police I have changed the culture of this organization into one of the most professional departments in the metropolitan area. During my tenure as chief of police I have been made aware, on several occasions, of inappropriate conduct by my officers. I quickly took the appropriate action to resolve these problems resulting in discipline and termination, when appropriate. There is no doubt that the employees of the Forest Park Police Department are very much aware that this type of conduct will not be tolerated.
Jim Ryan
Forest Park Police Chief
