Bill Miller, Minot
"Officers need more money: Part 2." My letter is to provide support to Nancy Bommelman's letter titled, "Officers need more money." I couldn't agree with her more that Minot police officers need more money. I would also like to include Ward County deputy sheriffs into this plea.
Our society asks these men and women to come to our work, our homes, our nightclubs and our stores to handle issues from minor traffic accidents, dog bites, domestic disputes or the worst scenario for law enforcement, an individual with a gun. These issues/calls don't just happen between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday either.
It doesn't matter if it's a blizzard, pouring rain, or a beautiful sunny day, they are on the streets, county roads and highways 24/7. If it's a three-day holiday weekend, they are out there so you can barbecue with your family. If it's Christmas, Thanksgiving or New Year's, they are out there so you can celebrate with your families. The bottom line is that no matter what time of the year it is or the event they are out there
You may say, well, they volunteered to do the job and you are right. It takes a special person, one who puts others before themselves to become an officer or a deputy. It's obvious by the current payscale that they don't volunteer for the job for the money or to get rich. The current pay for officers and deputies is pretty disappointing to say the least. We have officers and deputies that have to co-rent together because their current pay doesn't afford them the opportunity to afford a place on their own. We have officers and deputies who work second jobs to make ends meet.
The next time you call for an officer or deputy, know that they will be there and give 110 percent to assist you in resolving your issues. Know that no matter what they have going on in their own personal lives, that your issue is their main concern. Know that they put on a bullet-proof vest, strap on a duty weapon and a duty belt every day assuming and hoping that they will come home to their loves ones everyday or night.
It's time to pay our men and women who protect our society what they are worth. After all, you don't call your dentist, doctor or hair stylist at 3 a.m. when someone is breaking into your house or has just stolen your car, you call an officer or deputy.