News Summary
The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 9 has initiated a vote of no confidence against Police Chief Johnny Jennings due to concerns over management practices and his opposition to outer carrier vests. This marks the first formal vote of no confidence within the organization, following a preliminary survey of over 2,000 members. The situation is further complicated by a settlement dispute with the Charlotte City Council regarding former Council member Tariq Bokhari, intensifying internal tensions within the department.
Charlotte, North Carolina – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 9 has initiated a vote of no confidence against Police Chief Johnny Jennings. This action comes after a preliminary survey gauging member opinions on Chief Jennings was distributed to over 2,000 members of the organization, following a motion passed within the group.
The results of the vote—although significant in indicating member sentiments—will not directly affect Jennings’ position as Police Chief. Officers have expressed multiple concerns about management practices within the department, particularly regarding the treatment of personnel and the controversial purchase of outer carrier vests intended to aid in officer mobility and alleviate back pain.
Chief Jennings has raised objections against the use of outer carrier vests, stating that they do not offer adequate ballistic protection and may make officers appear more militaristic and less approachable to the public. However, members of the Fraternal Order of Police argue these vests meet the practical needs of officers during their duties and have expressed frustration over Jennings’ stance.
This vote of no confidence comes amidst a settlement dispute between Jennings and the Charlotte City Council related to former Council member Tariq Bokhari. Bokhari’s public campaign advocating for the outer carrier vests clashed with Jennings’ opposition, creating tension among city officials and within the police department.
The details of the settlement reached by the Charlotte City Council have not been disclosed publicly, as discussions occurred in a closed session. Allegations of unethical conduct by certain city leaders in connection to the settlement have been raised by members of the council.
In anticipation of the official vote results, FOP President Dan Redford has announced that a press conference will follow the conclusion of the preliminary survey. It is important to note that this marks the first time a vote of no confidence has been formally introduced within the Lodge 9 organization.
The Fraternal Order of Police is North Carolina’s largest police organization, comprising over 1,700 members from different law enforcement agencies. During the survey and voting process, members are currently prohibited from sharing their views with the media.
Internal conflict has been further exacerbated by the backlash faced by Major Brad Koch and CMPD Public Affairs Director Sandy Vastola regarding their handling of a complaint against Bokhari, which has led to separate legal issues. Retired Assistant Chief Vickie Foster has voiced surprise over the extent of these conflicts, acknowledging Jennings’ previously effective communication skills as a leader.
Police culture expert Dr. Daniel Baker has suggested that this vote of no confidence represents a “final expression of displeasure” within the department, illustrating the depth of discord among officers and leadership. The internal strife within the CMPD has been compared to a divorce, indicating a significant fracture in relationships among various members of the police force.
As this situation continues to unfold, all eyes will be on the results of the vote and the subsequent press conference held by FOP leadership. The outcome of this vote may have implications for the future dynamics of the CMPD and its interactions with city officials.
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Additional Resources
- Spectrum Local News
- Wikipedia: Charlotte, North Carolina
- WCNC
- Google Search: Charlotte’s Fraternal Order of Police
- WSOC TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Policing
- Charlotte Observer
- Google News: Charlotte Police Department
