NOEL, Missouri – A small town in Missouri is facing challenges as it grapples with ongoing efforts to reform law enforcement practices. The local police force is up against the push from anti-police activists and both federal and state lawmakers who are advocating for changes. Noel Marshal Randy Wilson, who has over 30 years of law enforcement experience, shared his views on the matter. While recognizing the need for improvements, Wilson also raised concerns about how far the reforms should go and whether they are tying the hands of law enforcement officers too much.
Wilson, who was elected as marshal of Noel in 2019, believes in the importance of community policing and building relationships with residents. By fostering trust and communication, he believes it becomes easier to defuse potential problems before they escalate, without resorting to force. The small town has a diverse population, with many residents being migrants from South America and Africa who work at the local Tyson poultry plant. Despite the nationwide social justice protests and calls to defund the police that occurred in 2020 following the death of George Floyd, Wilson did not experience hostility from his own residents.
Although President Biden signed an executive order in 2022 that limited certain police practices for federal officers, the majority of reforms are still happening at the local level. Missouri lawmakers have been working to pass reforms to address systemic racism in policing and remove barriers to disciplining officers for misconduct. However, Wilson and Sergeant Travis Sheppard emphasized the importance of involving actual officers and community members in the discussions, as lawmakers may not have firsthand knowledge of what happens on the field.
Wilson, as an elected official, has more control over policing procedures compared to a Chief of Police. He values the collaborative relationship he has with the mayor and city council, using compromise to achieve mutual goals. Both Wilson and Sheppard highlighted the need for lawmakers to consult with officers and understand the realities they face on a daily basis. They believe that involving the community in the process is crucial for improving policing and ensuring the well-being of the town.
In conclusion, the small town of Noel, Missouri is navigating the complex landscape of police reform. Marshal Randy Wilson and his team are working to balance the need for changes in law enforcement practices with the practical realities of their community. They emphasize the importance of collaboration and involving all stakeholders in the decision-making process to create effective and sustainable reforms.