From: Wheeler, Mayor Sent: Tuesday, July 2, 2019 2:06 PM To: AllPPBUsers Subject: Thank You. To Members of the Portland Police Bureau, I wanted to take this moment to say thank you. As your Police Commissioner, I fully support the work you do on the street every day, and I know how difficult it can be to keep the peace during potentially volatile situations. Over the last few years, you have become very well versed in managing large scale demonstrations. You have answered the call and taken a stand for our city by being on the front lines, and I know you’re exhausted emotionally and physically. That’s why I thank you for serving and protecting us. You have my utmost respect. The recent demonstration brought people into our city bent on clashing, and you remained consummate professionals. You did your job, and you served the community well. I condemn violence of all forms. It is never a means to a political end, and I denounce it. In the wake of the disturbing assaults, I know we will vigorously pursue arrests and prosecution to hold people accountable for their criminal acts. I also want to take this time to address some misinformation. There is a perception that I have restricted your abilities to enforce the law. That perception has been perpetuated by certain news outlets and personalities. That perception is false. My directives to the Chief and to you have always remained the same: ensure public safety and uphold the law. We are guided by the Constitution, our laws, and Bureau Policies. I have not and will not dictate tactics or place so-called “handcuffs” on you because I rely on the extensive knowledge and experience of our Bureau to do what is needed based on the situation at hand. This is difficult work, and you do it honorably. Unfortunately, there are those who seek to divide and polarize for political ends. We have all come to expect it, but it’s time now for me to start addressing rumors and false narratives head-on. Let me be clear, as Commissioner I fully support our Chief, the Command Staff, Sergeants, Detectives, Criminalists, Officers, and Non-Sworn Officers in taking actions necessary to protect free speech, enforce the law, and the safety of our community. I am concerned about your well-being and safety, as well. Therefore, I will continue to support you and advocate for you in City Hall and in the community – to make sure you get the resources that will help you get your job done. My relationship with the Bureau is important to me. It’s also very important to my Senior Policy Advisor on Public Safety, Robert King, who you might remember was former Commander of North Precinct. If you have further questions, please reach out to him. His email is: Robert.King@portlandoregon.gov Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me as well. Sincerely, Ted