Headlines from around the web regarding hiring, assessment and other human resource issues in public safety.

How Many Black Police Commissioners Has Boston Had? None, Until Now

The New York Times | Boston is a city that prides itself on making history. It created a volunteer night watch in 1636 and established a publicly funded police department with full-time officers in 1838. But it took until Monday for Boston to swear in its first African-American police commissioner, William G. Gross, 54.

What’s the difference between Texas law enforcement agencies? Curious Texas investigates

The Dallas Morning News | Though they all wear a badge, vow to protect and serve and have statewide jurisdiction, not every Texas law enforcement officer is the same. From the local to state level, from homes to the highway, there are different groups that each handle a variety of duties uniquely assigned to them.

Maine Police in Labor Dispute Shed Duty Uniforms in Favor of T-Shirts

Police Magazine | Lewiston, ME, police union representatives say that officers are “ditching their uniforms to show ‘dissatisfaction’ over contract negotiations with the city,” according to WGME-TV.

Dear Future Police Officer

Law Enforcement Today | I want to share some things with you before you start your journey as a police officer. I’m sharing this because I am a proud widow of a fallen hero, and now I have a son who is months away from starting his journey as an officer honoring his father. I was asked how I felt about that and had to sit back and really think about it. Charlie and I taught our children to find a career that makes them happy and proud and to never settle in life with “just a job.” So, who was I to question him? Besides, it’s in his blood.

Human Dignity and the Fire and Emergency Service: A Statement from the IAFC Board of Directors

IAFC Press Release | The IAFC will continue to lead by example to ensure an equal opportunity and fair treatment for all. When warranted, the IAFC will call out and draw attention to attacks on our members who are victims of this type of hatred. Further, the IAFC strongly recommends that all fire and emergency service organizations and agencies develop written policies and have procedures in place to support these position recommendations.

911 Emergency: Call Centers Can’t Find Workers

The Wall Street Journal | Cities across the U.S. are struggling to find 911 dispatchers as a historically tight labor market makes it harder to fill a job that was already a tough sell.

HERO HIGHLIGHT

Cop jumps off overpass to save boy’s life

PoliceOne | According to the Rockland/Westchester Journal News, Officer Jessie Ferreira was driving to work on Friday when she witnessed a 12-year-old boy jump over a guardrail and fall several feet onto concrete.