The Ardmore Police Department Fraternal Order of Police recently passed a vote of No Confidence in Police Chief David Leonardo. After numerous media interviews with city officials it has become apparent that they are not open to listening to the citizens of Ardmore. Rather, they have thrown their support behind Police Chief Leonardo. The FOP's vote of no confidence, approved unanimously by 78 percent of the groups members, contains these three points: 1.Manpower Issues: This is a primary issue of concern for the officers and the citizens of the City of Ardmore. The lack of manpower puts all officers at risk and makes it difficult, if not impossible, for the officers to serve and protect the citizens at a reasonable level. This issue has become so dire in nature that it is no longer a question of if an officer is going to get hurt, but when an officer will be injured or killed or when a citizen will be harmed because of lack of manpower. Officers are currently being required to work their days off and major amounts of overtime. These conditions lead to burnout and working while tired, which also leads to accidents and injuries to officers. The manpower issue is a direct result of the actions of Chief (David) Leonardo. Leonardo continues to perform in such a manner that results in more officers leaving, less officers being hired and continued manpower issues without regard for the officers, their safety, or the safety and protection of the citizens. 2.Failing to respond in an accurate and forthcoming manner to questions by the media and the public: Chief Leonardo has given inaccurate information to the media when questioned about his actions concerning Assistant Chief (Richard) Ackerman 3.Overall poor management of the department: As stated above the manpower issue is a direct result of poor management due to Chief Leonardo's leadership. Many officers have chosen to leave because they will not work in the type of environment the Chief has fostered. Many officers left because they refuse to treat people the way the Chief wanted people treated. In this administration, favoritism is rampant and rewarded. If you disagree with the Chief in any way you are punished for it through internal investigations, improper disciplinary actions and retaliation through shift and assignment changes. The overall morale of the police department is at an all time low, evidenced by the fact that most, if not all, officers are looking for employment elsewhere. Join in supporting our local police officers by signing this petition to remove Chief David Leonardo from his position.

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