Dolton’s New Top Cop Not Cleared for Duty, Law Enforcement Standards Board Says
Temporary Appointment Raises Questions
The man picked to temporarily run Dolton’s Police Department is not cleared for duty, the state’s law enforcement standards board ruled.
Ruling and Background
The ruling, issued by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board, found that Ronnie Burge Sr. is not authorized to perform law enforcement work, arguing that he has not received proper training to become an active police officer in the state.
Mayor’s Previous Attempt
Embattled Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard announced Burge’s temporary appointment at last week’s village board meeting after a majority of trustees voted against a permanent appointment.
Henyard tried previously to name Burge as permanent police chief, but a majority of village trustees sued in Cook County Circuit Court to block the action.
Standards Board’s Concerns
In a letter mailed in the aftermath of that action, the standards board reported that Burge had been wearing a Dolton police uniform and carrying a firearm publicly for weeks, but was not authorized to do so under their rules.
The letter stated that Dolton officials had not properly submitted paperwork for Burge to be reinstated as an active member of law enforcement, or requested a training waiver for the requirements.
The letter specifically cited Burge not being an active police officer for more than three years, and that he had not completed “a requalification shoot” since May 2018, a requirement for an officer who carries a firearm.
Consequences
The board found that Burge does not have the authority to make arrests or to carry a firearm, and urged Dolton officials to remove him from service “until an appointment is submitted.”
Burge’s Background
Burge previously served as police chief for Dixmoor and Harvey, according to officials.
Background Check
The letter also reminds the mayor that a thorough background check should be conducted on Burge.
Conclusion
The ruling by the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board raises questions about the temporary appointment of Ronnie Burge Sr. as Dolton’s top cop. The board’s concerns about Burge’s lack of proper training and authorization to perform law enforcement work highlight the need for proper procedures and protocols to be followed in the appointment of law enforcement officials.
FAQs
* What is the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board?
+ The Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board is a state agency responsible for setting and enforcing standards for law enforcement training and certification in Illinois.
* Why was Ronnie Burge Sr. not cleared for duty?
+ Burge was not cleared for duty because he did not receive proper training to become an active police officer in the state and did not complete the required training and certification.
* What are the consequences of not being cleared for duty?
+ The consequences of not being cleared for duty include being unable to perform law enforcement work, including making arrests and carrying a firearm.
* What is the next step for Dolton officials?
+ The next step for Dolton officials is to follow the standards board’s recommendation and remove Burge from service until an appointment is submitted and he is properly trained and certified.
