The town of Sunflower has a new Chief law enforcement officer. On Tuesday, Chief Bobby Walker addressed the mayor and aldermen and laid out his plan for curtailing the recent increase in shootings and gunplay and keeping the citizens safe and making them feel more secure in their homes.
Walker asserted that although he is just getting started, they have already addressed some issues with regard to the recent shootings in Sunflower. He said, “I think people think that we are here to do more harm than good because our reputation has preceded us. We are here to make sure people are living a good quality of life.”
Walker issued a promise to the city leaders that if any other shootings occur and they are given a name, his officers will provide results. The sheriff’s department has been responding to calls since the town has had a minimal force and Walker said they would continue to work with Sheriff James Haywood, but were working toward a time when they would be able to handle their own policing.
The new top cop said that he is aware that there are a lot of drugs and a lot of guns in Sunflower, “Because they are using them,” he said. He added, “I want to assure you that, that’s going to stop.”
Mayor Desiree Norwood said Walker was hired at a recent special call meeting. Tuesday was his fourth official day on the job and he has already named Officer Patrick Mitchell as his assistant chief.
The town's residents seem to be split about the city leaders' choice and both sides are being vocal about the lawmakers’ decision.
Norwood has scheduled a community meeting for Sunday at 5:30 p.m., at the town hall to discuss recent problems in the small town and is encouraging all citizens to attend. However, Norwood encouraged the residents to come with positive dialogue and possible solutions.
