Police chiefs welcome Trump’s ‘unwavering’ support
Cops across the country felt the love yesterday as President Trump proclaimed his administration’s support for police at the annual International Association of Chiefs of Police conference in Orlando, Fla.
“I want to express my gratitude for what you do every day, protecting our communities, our families, our streets and taking down crime,” Trump told the crowd of nearly 3,000 top police officials yesterday. “What you do is keep America safe and no one does that better than you.
“My administration always honors, cherishes and supports the men and women in blue,” Trump said.
Arlington police Chief Fred Ryan said the outspoken support comes at a critical time.
“Scrutiny that municipal law enforcement has been under in the last few years has caused challenges with hiring, recruitment and retention,” Ryan told the Herald. “So any support from the corner office is helpful … and that is an easy answer, this administration has been unwavering in its support.”
Trump claimed that his support also has come in the shape of funding for police agencies.
“They say, Mr. President, we need more funds, and I say, for what? And they say law enforcement, and I say you got ’em,” Trump said. “When law enforcement wants it, it is reasonable and law enforcement needs it. For you guys, anything you need me to do, I’ll do it.”
He said his administration has been working to allow officers access to military surplus equipment, as well as creating funding for the opioid crisis.
“I have been doing this since day one. It doesn’t always only protect the lives and safety of you, but it helps protect the lives and safety of everyone you serve,” Trump said.
He announced $42.4 million has been secured for funding to target drug traffickers. But, Ryan said, while Trump has done well with funding for training and equipment, the president isn’t doing enough in terms of the opioid crisis.
“If there was a flu epidemic that killed 100 people a day and there was a lifesaving antidote, the federal agencies would have it stocked in every health outlet,” Ryan said. “So why, then, don’t we have Narcan in every one, too? It is because of the stigma of addiction.”
When Ryan visited with Trump last year, he gave the president his opinion on what needs to be done to combat the opioid crisis.
“While there have been resources committed, they aren’t nearly enough,” Ryan said.