Another take on the new "unit:"
- I got the scoop from someone in the know. The department crunched some numbers and is now realizing that even with the tact teams, Area Sat teams and other misc teams there WILL NOT be enough "tier 1" officers available to handle the downtown crowds. The Chief of Patrol found out that most of the district officers trained with the shields DO NOT have dept issued bdu's and turtle gear and therefore can not be used on the front lines. The Chief (EW) responded "then make them buy it" to which he was told it would be 1st issue and the Dept would have to buy it. They then crunched THOSE numbers and realized they didn't want to spend that kind of money for what would turn out to be a "one time use, single event"
After putting their heads together they came up with this great MFF idea. Here's what it comes down to...get the officer to spend the $800, give them a cool title (MFF Officer) and use them ONE WEEK and forget about them.
Chief EW and DC Stevie G both know there are enough "Tier 1" officers trained for almost all other events EXCEPT G8.
So go ahead guys, spend $800 each that the dept won't spend for a 1-time use event.
When it happens,and it will, don't say you weren't warned.
-former 153/253
We're perusing the letter that went out. It seems this isn't a "unit," but rather a citywide incident team, on call and subject to canceled furloughs and days off along with switching start times and the like. You would be required to pass the POWER test, have an acceptable disciplinary and medical record and be available for certain training classes.
Oh yeah, you also have to come up with $800 to $1,000 in out-of-pocket expenses for equipment, thereby circumventing a largish portion of the FOP Contract, none of which guarantees you'd stay in the program if the city doesn't want you (they reserve the right to remove you without explanation).
We don't know who's brainchild this one is, but it's obviously poorly thought out or poorly presented.