Time is almost up for the Milwaukee Police Chief to complete his first directive from the Fire and Police Commission. The FPC issued 11 directives, which Chief Alfonso Morales had to answer or face punishment, which could include being fired.
Now on the eve of the first deadline, the FPC issued a statement saying their directives are being “shamelessly exploited.”
The first directive due August by the chief is to give “full, public, and accurate explanation of the use of tear gas and large volumes of oleoresin capsicum spray during peaceful civil disturbances” that happened in Milwaukee following the death of George Floyd.
In their statement, the FPC said this directive has been “shamelessly exploited and distorted.”
In the time since the directives were issued, more than 100 law enforcement agencies have dropped out of coming to Milwaukee to help with the Democratic National Convention. Last week, FPC Commissioner Nelson Soler said he didn’t know why.
“They are saying they are prohibiting the department from using of OC and other departments are dropping because of that. When did you hear that in the meeting?” asked Soler.
Also today, an open letter was sent to Mayor Tom Barrett’s office calling for an investigation into the Fire and Police Commission. The letter saying “the recent actions of the FPC are part of a preplanned coordinated political attack.”
More than 270 people signed it, including community leader Nancy Hernandez.
“I think it's within his authority to overrule this and kind of take a pause. These are important issues before us,” said Hernandez. “It’s clear whatever is taking place right now isn’t a true review process.”
The mayor’s office said he received the letter. Not all the signatures are from people are Milwaukee residents.
In the meantime, Chief Morales office said he is committed to complying with the directives.
