Way to go Ironton Police Department! Back in 2006, while working for the Hanging Rock Police Department, I took a civil service exam for the position of Ironton Police Officer.

Richard Fouts, myself, and Brad Layman respectively scored one, two and three. During the interview process I was told I would not be hired due to the fact that little was known about my character, even though this newspaper had even done an article about me “going above and beyond the call of duty.”

I had a large support from the community. The second reason was allegations made after I informed Hanging Rock of my intent to leave. Even Chief Jim Carey agreed it sounded a little politically inspired. Instead, I was skipped over while Fouts and Layman were selected as officers.

Now let’s fast forward to 2009. Both officers have resigned due to character-related issues. I’m in no way bitter. I’ve gone on to be successful in other measures with no character issues. But isn’t it time the people of Ironton and Lawrence County quit suffering due to the “good ol’ buddy” system?

Just look in the last year all the controversy surrounding Lawrence County law enforcement.

How about, on top of officers resigning, we start seeing the supervisors who selected these officers step down as well?

Michael Jenkins, Portsmouth