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Stephen Daniel's avatar

Excellent work, sir. Part of the reason we're seeing such dismal recruiting numbers, from what I've observed, is because we aren't recruiting the right people. My department goes to career fairs at colleges and universities.

I was confused when I first learned of this because I assumed we were doing heavy ex-military recruiting. That's been a reliable source of new officers for decades on end. But I was informed city leadership was actively trying to avoid recruiting from the military community. They want fresh-faced college kids with social work on the mind, not law enforcement.

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Roland Clee's avatar

That's a tough situation. Thank you for your insight on this. If there ever is interest in a new way of approaching recruiting, just let me know. My friends and I would be honored to be part of the solution. Again, great job on your last article!

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Paula Fitzsimmons's avatar

Excellent analysis, as always. This is a truly frightening scenario, and I sometimes wonder if the American public truly understands the gravity of the situation.

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Stephen Daniel's avatar

I can tell you they really don't understand it. At least not enough of them to make a difference in the culture. I've explained the situation to friends and community members, and they tend to be genuinely shocked by how serious things have gotten.

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Paula Fitzsimmons's avatar

Would it be ok if I use your quote (attributed, of course) in an upcoming article?

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Stephen Daniel's avatar

Absolutely, thank you! And to be fair, I can't fully blame the everyday citizen for not being aware. We all have personal lives, and overarching crime trends just aren't on most people's radar until something bad happens to them personally.

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Paula Fitzsimmons's avatar

Thanks so much, and I do understand where you're coming from. It's why I'm excited that the new police & public safety action center I've been working on with Independent Women's Network is set to launch in May. Hoping this will open some eyes.

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