"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
When Rodney Monroe began his job as Charlotte's Police Chief in 2008, we were optimistic.
He had an impressive resume in Richmond, and we hoped his successes there would translate to Charlotte.
We also said we would continue to evaluate how the Chief and his department are performing.
So far, so good.
The latest statistics show crime in Charlotte dropped by 7 percent.
Also there were 55 homicides in 2011 – the lowest number in 23 years.
96 percent of those homicides have been cleared, well above the national average of 69%.
Chief Monroe attributes this success to intensive investigation efforts, a good relationship with the new District Attorney, and the community coming forward with information.
He says making an arrest within 72 hours sends a strong message to prospective criminals.
We applaud the hard work of both leaders and officers on the beat.
On the flip side, the issue of the Chief's missing college diploma remains.
By not going after it, he's showing he doesn't think a diploma is necessary for success.
We think it's the principle of the thing.
A valid degree IS a requirement for his position.
We think it's high time Chief Monroe put this to rest by finishing his coursework.
It's a shame to have this "Incomplete" still hanging over his head.
"Speak Out" is an expression of opinion from the Editorial Board of WBTV, and is presented by General Manager, Nick Simonette.
