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Mayor Barrett, Chief Morales deny reports police chief is in danger of being fired
Mayor Barrett, Chief Morales deny reports police chief is in danger of being fired
MILWAUKEE -- Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett on Monday, Sept. 23 refuted rumors he wants to replace Milwaukee Police Chief Alfonso Morales. This, following reports Mayor Barrett wants to see Chief Morales go -- for the second time in a month.
Mayor Barrett called the reports false, and said he supports Chief Morales. This, following the second report in a month from WISN-AM Radio that indicated Mayor Barrett was looking to replace Chief Morales.
Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett
"I want him to stay," said Mayor Barrett.
According to the WISN-AM Radio report Monday, Morales' contract is up in January -- and he has not been offered a new contact by the Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission, which is controlled by the mayor.
"A number of sources even going so far as to say that it's a done deal -- that Morales will be replaced by Green Bay Police Chief Andrew Smith," said Dan O'Donnell, WISN-AM Radio host.
Green Bay Police Chief Andrew Smith
O'Donnell reported sources told him Chief Smith came to Milwaukee in mid-September, touring MPD facilities as part of an interview.
Mayor Barrett said that's not true, and he stands behind Chief Morales.
"I've made it clear, and I'll continue to make it clear, I support him as chief," said Mayor Barrett. "Today, I saw the references that the Green Bay police chief made, and I echo his comments, even though I've never met the man. We've never met each other."
The mayor's office released the following statement on this matter:
Chief Morales released this statement:
Chief Smith issued this statement on Facebook: