The head of the Nashville Metro Police Department is sounding the alarm when it comes to a dwindling force he says is stretched too thin.
Police Chief Steve Anderson released a statement last Friday urging public support for more manpower, acknowledging that it's a "tough time" for police and that "more is being asked of Nashville's police officers than ever before."
WTVF reported recently that the department is currently understaffed by 108 officers.
Nashville Fraternal Order of Police President James Smallwood told the news station that morale has been at an all-time low.
"They don't want to come here and be police officers," he said. "We have people leaving at an increased rate and less people applying to come in the front door of this department."
Since the first of the year, 17 police officers have left the force, and in the last six months 54 officers have left. Meanwhile, the last recruiting class graduated just 29 police officers.
Below is Police Chief's Steve Anderson's full statement:
"Every person, regardless of where you live in Nashville, should take a moment to stop and thank a police officer. Franly, this is a tough time for the men and women who wear our badge. In the midst of daily sometimes agenda-based criticism of the law enforcement profession, nationally and to an extent locally, we are asking more of Nashville's police officers than ever before. Our city needs more police officers. I am grateful for those who choose to wear the MNPD uniform and protect our community. Nashville's families should be, too. Please let our men and women know that with a brief word or a friendly wave."
