Statement from Public Safety Director Judge Jimmie Edwards - March 15th, 2019

Recent statements made by an employee of the St. Louis Police Officers Association do not reflect the wishes nor the opinions of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, Judge Jimmie Edwards said Friday.

“The St. Louis Police Metropolitan Police Department is an entirely separate entity from the St. Louis Police Officers Association. The two should not be confused,” Edwards said. “We do not, and will not support any legislation attempting to have Circuit Attorney Kim Gardner recalled,” Edwards continued. “The Police Department and the Circuit Attorney’s Office have a shared interest in making St. Louis a safer place for all residents.

That work will continue despite the inflammatory comments made recently by one person who works for the police union.” “I appreciate and respect how difficult it is to investigate and prosecute crimes in the City of St. Louis.

I encourage all parties that have a role in criminal justice in our City work together and get the job done,” Edwards added.