Community leaders voice support for BPD police chief as a petition circulates for his resignation [Video]

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – Community and law enforcement leaders are voicing their support for for Birmingham Police Chief Scott Thurmond. This follows State Representative Juandalynn Givan calling for the Chief to resign and a petition that is now circulating online.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin says he has full confidence in Chief Thurmond overseeing the rollout of the new recruitment and retention plan the city council passed Tuesday.

Woodfin went on to add that this is a critical juncture for the city, and that BPD leadership and city officials will all work together to better police staffing.

Birmingham City Councilor Darrell O’Quinn says the Thurmond has not had the resources available to him to address the public safety issues in the city, but believes the new plan empowers him to start addressing the issues.

Councilor Crystal Smitherman also says she has full confidence in Chief Thurmond.

However, his support is not just among city leaders.

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