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Highlands Today

Avon Park Police Investigations Do Much To Reassure The Public

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 5, 2008

It's sad when those we entrust with protecting the public are accused of wrongdoing. It happens occasionally, and now it has happened in Avon Park. We don't know if the officers are innocent or guilty, but their alleged crimes send shivers down the spines of the public, and probably fellow law enforcement professionals as well.

The officers, Alberto Perez and Adam Willis, have been accused of threats of extortion and for stealing from vehicles. The FDLE investigated both cases and found cause for arrest warrants.

There's little doubt that other Avon Park Police officers are feeling shaky these days. That happens when someone you know and work with is charged with such crimes. But allegations against others do not reflect on the good work they do.

In every walk of life there are bad eggs that make innocent people look bad. It's true in professional sports, business, education, clergy, law enforcement, the media and everywhere else in between.

The thought of corrupt law enforcement officers carries an even more serious threat to public confidence. We are taught all along that they are there to protect us. The standard is high, but it's one all law enforcement sign up for when they become cops.

We applaud the Avon Park Police Department for handling this situation so well. The police chief took quick action and brought in an outside agency to make sure the investigation was done independently. That in itself should reassure the public that such actions are dealt with swiftly.

Regardless of the outcome of the trials of these two former officers, we hope the public maintains trust in our local law enforcement. There is no doubt that the vast majority of those sworn to protect us do just that. They risk their lives every day to keep our communities safe. They need our trust just like we need theirs.

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