I mailed a receipt from one of the local sandwich shops to Police Chief White asking to meet with me at his convenience. This receipt showed a “Police & Fire” discount of approximately 50 percent for the police officer who ate there. I feel that law enforcement should not accept a gratuity from anyone.

First I called the PD and left a message with the Chief’s secretary, asking for a few minutes of his time. I did not get a call back so I called again a week later. I did finally get a call and was advised that he did not have time to discuss what I termed another bad perception of law enforcement. I waited some more and finally wrote a letter to the Chief and enclosed the receipt showing a huge discount.

Some days later I finally had a telephone call from one of the officers of the PD. He advised the Chief did not have time to meet with me but he had been directed to make contact instead. During the conversation with this officer, I learned that this particular chain authorizes this discount at all of their establishments. This officer stated that “most” of the officers in CDAPD refuse to take the discount by leaving a large tip instead. I understand and agree with this action. I have done the same while in KCSO uniform.

The next piece of information really upset me. He stated that a policy with CDAPD allows them to receive up to a $50 gift/gratuity. I find this very hard to accept. Every law enforcement agency that I know of has a policy of “NO” gratuity, not even a free cup of coffee. I have talked to numerous retired police officers who also find this hard to believe.

I’m hoping that Chief White will make contact with me now and that we can discuss this policy. I imagine this policy was in effect long before he became our Chief. Now that he is aware of the policy, I’m hoping he will take corrective action. Right now police agencies across the nation are “fair game” in many large and small cities and I’m hoping our department does not leave any impression of wrongdoing.

DUSTY RHOADS

Veteran