A look at diversity in Cleveland County law enforcement - Shelby Star

Ashton Moore grew up watching his uncle put his family and his country first.

A military veteran who went on to work for the federal government, Moore paid close attention to what his uncle did on the job and how he treated his family.

“My uncle motivated me to become a police officer because he has always been a good role model for me,” said Moore. “He went into the military right after he graduated. He has always been a family-oriented man.”

Now, just 10 weeks into his career as an officer for the Kings Mountain Police Department, Moore hopes to mimic the values his uncle instilled in him years ago.

He also hopes to bridge the gap between law enforcement and the Black community.

The cry for diversity in policing is growing louder as some African Americans say they feel more comfortable when an officer from the same race comes to their aid.

Moore noted he sees a difference in the way people of color respond to him. He is just one of four Black police officers in the department, but Kings Mountain Police Chief Lisa Proctor said they have worked tirelessly to see that number increase.

“When I have an opening, I call some of the Black pastors that I know so they can get the word out to their congregation,” said Proctor.

Determined to blaze an unforgettable trail much like the one his uncle left, Moore believes this was the right time to make the transition so others can see the man behind the badge is driven to protect and serve all, no matter what color.

Diversity in policing

Cleveland County Sheriff Alan Norman said he is always looking to hire applicants from diverse backgrounds.

“It is extremely important for our community to see themselves represented within our ranks,” said Norman.

Durwin Briscoe, assistant chief deputy for the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Department, has been with the department for 29 years.

Born and raised in Shelby, he echoed Norman’s statement regarding the need for a more diverse force.

“As law enforcement agencies, we always talk about protecting the community,” said Briscoe. “But in order for us to fairly do that, we should somehow reflect the community we are protecting. A lot of times, it is easier if you are talking to someone you recognize or someone you can relate to in dealing with situations.”

Women and minorities

Norman said his department is made up of Caucasian, African American, Pacific Islander, Venezuelan and Hispanic employees. He also wanted to point out the growing number of female applicants, saying they believe women are just as capable of doing police work as their male counterparts.

“It should also be noted that many of our leaders within the agency are minorities, including women,” said Norman. “This expanded diverse representation has been a priority for me from the very beginning of my administration, and that focus continues into the future.”

Some Black people feel equal representation across the board would result in fewer, less aggressive altercations. Norman said diversity can mend relationships and create new ones.

“Citizens like to see those similar to them holding important positions within the community, and especially in areas of public safety and leadership,” said Norman. “This gives us a more well-rounded ethnic and cultural understanding within our ranks. This assists us in building lasting positive relationships with the community, instilling trust and effective communication.”

By the numbers

The Boiling Springs Police Department has 14 officers to include one female, two African Americans and 11 Caucasians.

Thirty-six officers make up the Kings Mountain department, with four Black, 28 white and four female officers.

At Gardner-Webb University, the staff of just seven has five white and two Black officers.

The Shelby Police Department has 85 officers to include 76 whites and nine Blacks.

The Shireff’s office boasts the largest number of officers with 179, including 138 whites and 32 Blacks.

Proctor said by having a diverse force, the department raises its level of understanding.

“You want your department to represent the community it serves,” said Proctor. “It brings into the department the community as a whole. I can go into any community and talk to them one-on-one, but I may not understand what is going on in that community. But if I have an officer that is from that community, they may have a better understanding of what’s going on.”

SPD Police Chief Jeff Ledford said diversity is challenging nationwide and takes constant recruiting.

Lives on the line

Moore has never been one to tolerate bad behavior. In fact, he would step in for others in school, defending those too small or timid to fight off a bully or ill-mannered student.

Little did he know that small voice inside telling him to do what is right was training for the road ahead.

“That is just me,” said Moore. “That is something I have always done.”

Moore said his only fear about working in law enforcement is leaving his family when he heads out to work. Police officers put their lives on the line every day. Last month, an officer in Chicago was killed during a traffic stop shootout. Still, Moore thinks the risk is worth the reward.

“My family was surprisingly OK with me choosing this career choice,” said Moore. “My plans are to retire here.”

Latrice Williams can be reached at 704-669-3339 and [email protected].

source: https://www.shelbystar.com/story/news/2021/09/27/law-enforcement-officers-say-more-diversity-policing-necessary/5653041001/

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