The Bluegrass Fraternal Order of Police has endorsed Anthany Beatty in the upcoming Mayor’s Race.
Fraternal Order of Police President Jason Rothermund “We believe that he (Beatty) represents the brightest future and the greatest style of leadership moving forward for the city of Lexington and its citizens.” Rothermund said the organization chose to endorse former Lexington Police Chief Anthany Beatty after interviewing both candidates.
Four years ago, the FOP backed Jim Gray, but Rothermund says they are disappointed that the Mayor has not abided by contractual obligations while in office. He pointed out a recent executive order that was issued regarding personal use of police cruisers. “I’ll be quite frank with you. That was nothing more than a political ploy to shift blame and responsibility for the rising crime trends in the city of Lexington to the police officers themselves instead of answering the actual issue and addressing the problem.”
Anthany Beatty believes public safety has not been a priority in recent years and has made it his top campaign promise. “Jim Gray has not been getting things done, as he likes to say, in public safety. We intend to change that.” Beatty’s plan would include increasing the number of sworn officers on the force within his first year of office.
WUKY will broadcast a debate between Beatty and Gray Tuesday night October 28th in UK's Worsham Theater.