BOBBY ARDOIN
Editor/Consulting Writer
Editor’s Note: This is the second of three stories from the St. Landry Democratic Women’s Forum held at the Delta Grand last week. In this article the two Opelousas police chief candidates discuss their qualifications.
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Martin McLendon, incumbent police chief.
McLendon, elected to a first term four years ago, said the city didn’t arrive at its current situation overnight.
“I know however that the men and women on this police force are committed to making the city safer. There are issues that occur when a child is born in poverty and I am here along with my officers who I assure you are committed to make sure that we restore some hope in our young people,” McLendon said.
McLendon framed the campaign as one that features voters’ trust.
“The big question in this campaign is who can you trust. You can trust me with your children. We have children right now out there and who are doing terrible things. I am a person that will always show up to help a parent pull children out of the mud. I’m here to tell you that we’re not giving up. I believe in being among the people,” said McLendon.
Graig LeBlanc, candidate for police chief
LeBlanc said he plans to help solve Opelousas crime using federal grant money and his experience as a city police officer and parish sheriff’s deputy. LeBlanc said he also has the training required to help stop violent crime.
“Because of what I am capable of doing mentally and the passion that I have, we can stop the surge that we are having in violent crime due to gang activity,” said LeBlanc.
LeBlanc said he would feature two programs which focus on concentrating officers in high crime areas and working with individuals who need assistance with mental health and social problems.
“I have been there on the front lines (of criminal activity). I am speaking from experience. We have conditions right now in the city where it comes down to who will fight violent crime head on,” LeBlanc pointed out.
