This week we were pleased to learn that the City of Madison and its investigators cleared Chief Shon Barnes of any wrongdoing as it relates to the allegations that he made sexually inappropriate comments to an officer departing the Madison Police Department. We are also pleased to hear that the city apologized to Chief Barnes, as well.
To be clear, the city investigated Chief Barnes for attempting to retain a good officer on his force. He made no sexual innuendos, no inappropriate touching, and no harassment of any kind. And yet, the media quickly ran with sensationalized headlines insinuating that Chief Barnes did just that.
While we are pleased that the city has apologized to Chief Barnes for their mishandling of this complaint and the media has reported that he has been cleared of any wrongdoing, we do not believe this is sufficient to repair the harm that has been done to Chief Barnes and his family.
In an age in which trust in police is at an all-time low, and the sexuality of Black men is seen as “other” and scary in our culture, these allegations did real damage to the Chief.
Chief Barnes’ mission here in Madison, like the mission of every other Chief before him, is to be a leader in providing a safe and vibrant community and empower his officers to do the same. To do this, Chief Barnes must develop strong relationships with all of the citizens of Dane County.
The bedrock of quality policing in any community is public trust. A police department achieves public trust through integrity, transparency, and high ethical behavior. Quality policing serves a very important role in all communities across our great nation, and especially in Madison.
The media’s sensationalized reporting of the allegations against Chief Barnes were unwarranted and damaging. We urge you to apologize to him and the citizens of Madison, as well.
Sincerely,
Rev. David Hart, Esq, Kirbie Mack, Ray Allen, Theresa Sanders, Tracey Caradine, Rev. Joseph Baring, Rev. Dr. Alex Gee, Rev. Marcus Allen, Rev. William Badger, Kaleem Caire, Atty. Josh Hargrove, Atty. Angela Arrington, Connie Miles, Carola Gaines, Deidre Morgan, Yvette Craig, Dr. Corinda Rainey-Moore, Teresita Torrence and Jacqueline Jolly.
BPSADC, Inc.