A show of solidarity behind Jericho Fire Chief Don Payne

Earlier this month, Don Payne, the Fire Chief for the small Arkansan town of Jericho, was shot by cops in the back, in court, over a minor scuffle whilst he tried to contest two traffic tickets he’d gotten in the same day. Then, because the cops cannot be accused of anything and anyone who opposes them has to be shut up, it was announced that Payne would be charged with battery, despite not having actually assaulted the cops (and much less injured anyone).

Now, in a move to declare their support for their ailing Fire Chief, all 18 of Jericho’s firefighters have walked out.

As honorable as the sentiment and actions are, this raises problems. Already, Jericho has lost its police department when the Police Chief disbanded it last week as a response to this whole affair; not only does the town not have any criminal protection, but now they won’t be having anyone to come and put any potential fires out. I understand how showing support for wronged innocents is important, but at the same time, surely it isn’t wise to do so at the expense of other innocents, the citizens who may need firefighting help sooner or later?

(via The Agitator)
Technorati tags: Don Payne · firefighters · Jericho · Arkansas