The duty of police officers is not only to protect, but to also serve the citizens of Little Rock. Officers take their sworn oath and missions very seriously. We have not seen a commitment to either from the current administration. This current administration has misled the citizens of Little Rock regarding critical issues that affect the safety of this city. The number of officers has declined during the tenure of this administration, while, simultaneously, violent crime has risen by double-digit percentages. The programs being touted as solutions to the ever increasing violent crime are programs that have existed all along and have not been utilized. Becoming concerned about violent crime, and crime in general, during an election year is too little, too late.

Protecting and serving the citizens of Little Rock requires having enough officers to respond to calls for service. Protecting and serving requires leadership that sets high standards, ensures officers are properly equipped, supports their officers, and holds officers accountable, regardless of ideology. The current administration has portrayed that policing in Little Rock needs to be “fixed” while at the same time stating they “appreciate” them. True leadership has to unwaveringly hold themselves to the same high standard that is set for its employees.

Therefore, the Little Rock Fraternal Order of Police (Lodge #17) offers our endorsement to a man who has committed to transparency and accountability. A man who is committed to placing the safety of this city as his highest priority. A man who has a proven track record of building and running successful organizations. A man who now seeks to hold the office of Mayor to provide what he can give to the citizens of Little Rock. A man who loves this city with all his being.

The Little Rock Fraternal Order of Police endorses Steve Landers for Mayor of Little Rock.