For Immediate Release
March 21, 2017
Contact: Amy Mercer
amercer@fpca.com / 850-219-3631
FPCA Statement on Punta Gorda Case
Tallahassee, Fla. – The Florida Police Chiefs Association today released the following statement from Executive Director Amy Mercer regarding the criminal charges filed in February against Punta Gorda Police Chief Tom Lewis:
“The Florida Police Chiefs Association has been closely watching the situation unfolding in Punta Gorda, where a tragedy at a community demonstration in August claimed the life of an elderly resident, Mrs. Mary Knowlton. From the very onset, our hearts have been with that entire community, the family of Mrs. Knowlton and the members of the Punta Gorda Police Department. We understand Mrs. Knowlton was a treasured member of the community and our deepest sympathies remain with those she left behind.
“We are also closely monitoring the charges filed against Chief Tom Lewis in relation to this tragic accident. We are deeply concerned as to the implications this case could have for law enforcement leaders across the nation.
“We encourage all of our members to familiarize themselves with the facts of the case in keeping with our shared goal of protecting our officers and the citizens we serve.”
###
Amy Mercer
Executive Director
Florida Police Chiefs Association
P.O. Box 14038
Tallahassee, FL 32317
850-219-3631
amercer@fpca.com
www.fpca.com