Should public safety officers be in good physical and mental condition?
The Pennington County Sheriff’s Office requires a physical fitness obstacle course, the department believes this kind of training is vital.
Jokes aside, I know, I am short, fat and couldn’t catch a squirrel stuck in a peanut can, but I expect more out of our police officers.
Does the SFPD have a physical and mental test of officers each year?
I remember when Dr. Kermit Staggers was on the city council, and he asked then Chief Barthel if the police officers had any physical requirements. A stunned Barthel says, “They have to be able to perform their duties.”
OKAY.
I have literally seen SFPD officers step out of their vehicles and the vehicle bounces back in retraction from the weight being lifted.
Don’t judge. I have advocated on this blog and to city councilors that all patrol officers should get paid at least 4 hours a week for gym and physical fitness time and any other tools to keep them in shape. I believe officers and any city employee is a taxpayer investment and we should give them whatever they need to be successful. I want our officers to be of sharp mind and sharp body. It is not only an investment for citizens and our safety, it is an investment in their lives and families and that really has no price-tag.