Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott issued a statement Friday to assure citizens the city is safe. His department has come under fire because it took officers ten days to find the body of South Carolina Hospitality Association President Tom Sponseller in the garage of his office building.
Here is the statement in its entirety:
March 2, 2012
Dear Citizens, Supporters and Columbia Police Department Personnel, and City Council Members,
I am issuing this statement to assure our citizens, supporters and staff that the goals and objectives expressed more than a year ago remain the same today.
Recently the City of Columbia Police Department faced challenges that may have caused citizens to question the department's mission and objectives. I am confident that we have dealt with these matters appropriately.
Over the past several months, we have identified various areas where changes were necessary in order for us to continue our quest for excellence in law enforcement.
In the words of legendary newsman Walter Cronkite, "I can't imagine a person becoming a success who doesn't give this game of life all he or she's got." The Columbia Police Department will continue to recruit and hire people who are competent and committed to giving the City of Columbia their best.
I want to thank the citizens of Columbia who have contacted us offering support for our work. I also appreciate the elected officials in the City of Columbia, and the administration for its leadership and support.
Last but not least, I want to thank the fine men and women who make up the Columbia Police Department for their commitment to protecting the lives of the people of our great city.
Sincerely,
Randy Scott
Chief of Police
Columbia Police Department
