Name-calling the day before the Measure G election. Monday the president of the Fresno Police Officer's Association said Chief Jerry Dyer has been duped by a con-artist, Mayor Ashley Swearengin. Jacky Parks says that's the reason Dyer supports Measure G while the police union opposes it.
Publicly trashing the mayor and police chief, Parks questions why Dyer favors Measure G.
"Even intelligent police officers who possess a great compassion for their fellow man and want to believe people have the best intentions can be duped by a good con-man. So I have to believe in this case, Dyer's been duped," said Parks.
Swearengin responds by complimenting Dyer. She doesn't appear phased by the con-man, or in this case con-woman, reference.
"We are very lucky in Fresno to be served by one of the best police chiefs in the country. I hardly think that Chief Dyer could be duped into anything," said Swearengin.
Parks says while Measure G advertisements say money will to towards public safety, next year's budget shows the department will lose $1 million dollars. Swearengin says that's misleading. The general fund actually pumps $2.5 million dollars more into the department if Measure G passes.
"The million dollars that Jacky Parks is referring to is simply the fact that we have less money coming in from vehicle citations because we have fewer officers. But the general fund is contributing more to public safety this next year," said Swearengin.
She says the the measure is approved by voters 10-20 officers will be hired within two years. But Parks claims money is actually going towards equipment upgrades instead of new officers.
"Something smells at City Hall and it's not the trash," said Parks.
Chief Dyer had no comment on Monday.