The Fraternal Order of Police Rock City Lodge has publicly endorsed Perry Perkins for County Commission District 7 in the Republican primary election. Rock City Lodge #22 is the local chapter of the largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers in the country.
Master Police Officer Sean O'Brien, president of F.O.P.
Rock City, said in a letter to Mr. Perkins, "The members of Rock City Lodge #22 value the opportunity to endorse a candidate whom they believe will represent their values and vision within the realms of government service."
Mr. Perkins said, “The Fraternal Order of Police is the voice of citizens who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities. Having worked as a reserve officer and a volunteer probation officer, I understand the critical nature of the work of law enforcement. I am humbled and honored to receive their endorsement.”
Mr. Perkins has also been endorsed by the Chattanooga Fire Fighters Association and the International Brotherhood of Police Officers.
Early on in the race for the Republican nomination for County Commission District 7, Mr. Perkins made public safety and emergency services a cornerstone of his vision for Hamilton County. He said he wants the county to support emergency services and first responders through better communication about the nature of emergency response and by ensuring that first responders have the resources they need to keep residents safe.
Mr. Perkins is a former reserve officer – a volunteer position that supports professional law enforcement officers. He advocates continued support for the reserve program. “Active citizenship is critical to public safety,” he said.
On Feb. 11, Mr. Perkins released a statement listing safety measures residents could take to keep themselves safe. In that statement, he also identified the need to “provide law enforcement with sufficient resources and staffing to maintain the peace. The prevention and investigation of crime is labor-intensive and local law enforcement agencies are currently understaffed.”
Mr. Perkins said such support will enhance the safety of all residents. When a tornado hit his Apison home in 2011, he publicly thanked emergency workers across county for working together during the relief effort.
Early voting runs through May 1. Election Day is May 6.