In a letter sent to Mayor Ramiro Hernandez and released to local media this week, the officers highlighted deficiencies in the local force, ranging from the poor condition of police installations and facilities, salaries that have hardly changed in 15 years, the lack of benefits (life insurance, etc.), the need for increased vacation time due to “burnout” and the need for better and more dignified equipment and uniforms.
The officers also complained that many talented officers are not given the chance of promotion, and derided the practice of “recycling” commanders, that gives the impression that these jobs are “bought.”In addition, the officers demanded that authorities do more to boost the image of the police as a responsible agency. They also called for a monument to fallen officers, so those who “risk their lives day after day can be recognized.”
They also want a committee set up to defend the rights of police officers.
The unhappy officers say they will wear a white ribbon from June 4 to signify they are working under protest. They will also hang banners reiterating their demands outside police bases in the municipality.
Some members of the group have set up a Twitter account (@PoliciasGDL) on which disgruntled officers can share their complaints publicly in anonymity.