There are not many organizations that are as near and dear to my heart as the Chattanooga Police Department. After 30 years wearing the badge, the CPD is interwoven into my DNA. I am also a proud son of Chattanooga, and it has been my life’s honor and privilege to serve and protect the people of my hometown.
So, as a retired officer and now private citizen, I was both shocked and disappointed when I learned that Chief of Staff Jerri Sutton was not only passed over for promotion to deputy chief (second in command), but also effectively demoted by newly appointed Chief of Police John Chambers.
Chief Sutton is one of the most experienced and knowledgeable leaders on the executive staff. She has served in almost every capacity at the CPD. From being the director of Training Division, Public Information coordinator, Patrol Sector captain, assistant chief over Patrol Division and Investigations Division, and most recently chief of staff. If you can name it, Chief Sutton has done it at the CPD.
In addition to her duties within the department, Chief Sutton has worked tirelessly in her personal time with civic organizations across this city in an effort to improve the lives of Chattanoogans and to strengthen the relationship between our police officers and the communities they serve. There is not a neighborhood you can visit in this city where the residents do not know and respect Chief Sutton. You do not reward that level of service and dedication by passing over a person, and you certainly do not reward it with a demotion.
The civil unrest that we experienced during the summer of 2020 highlighted a few things that our community expects from our police department. None more important than having empathetic police leaders who have sound judgement and who have earned respect and built trusted relationships within our community. Chief of Staff Sutton is one such leader.
During the term of our last chief, Mayor Kelly saw fit to step in when our new chief made a questionable decision that adversely impacted the work status of 15 CPD officers. I would appeal to Mayor Kelly to exercise that same level of oversight by reevaluating another questionable decision. This time, one made by our new chief, John Chambers.
Glenn Scruggs
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I’m am saddened by the Officer Sutton situation. The demotion has me baffled - what would be the chief reasoning for this? They both have worked together in one form or other. Overlooking her for a promotion. Prior to that not receiving the position for chief of police sends a red flag since the position went within the department she was in. More experienced, higher ranking, etc., that did not mean anything in today’s city protocol, ethics, dedication, etc.
For some reason I see preference, women's efforts and dedication being cast aside and chastised. I do see politics, unfairness served cold, blatantly in our face.
Another sad day for women choosing law enforcement.
Cecilie M. Roman