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READERS' FORUM

Experts Should Select Policemen

What are effective selection criteria for Cleveland policemen? I doubt that our city government, Police Chief Gerity, or the Fraternal Order of Police possess data to substantiate any list of selection criteria. There has been a dearth of research in this politically-sensitive area.

Does a single petty crime, or admitted homosexual act, or isolated drug experience alone constitute sufficient data to eliminate the possibility of success in police work? Studies have indicated that a large number of “normal” American males have participated in some overt homosexual activity, that an inner city youth, particularly if he is black has a high risk of arrest, and that there is a high incidence of isolated arug usage among our youth. What is the evidence that such individuals cannot become effective police men or women?

How much intelligence is necessary for police work? Are there special selection criteria for specific phases of police duty? What are the characteristics of an ideal police candidate? These are questions that cannot be answered by political wrangle or special interest conjectures. Our community is fortunate in having a reservoir of selection expertise. Perhaps the mayor should appoint a panel of such experts, free of political interference, to study and recommend relevant selection criteria for the Police Department...

T. LEON NICKS

1464 E. 105th Street, Cleveland