KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Kalamazoo Public Safety is suspending the use of masks by officers.
The specter of immigration officials hiding their faces with masks as they make raids has struck fear into the hearts of some communities, becoming a national and a Kalamazoo issue.
When local undercover officers recently wore masks during a raid on the Northside, witnesses took notice and complained.
Justin Suarez told city commissioners this week he has seen several officers wearing masks in the last month on different occasions.
Resident Silvano Vanegas told commissioners that officers could be putting themselves in jeopardy if they wear masks.
Kalamazoo Public Safety Chief Dave Boysen announced yesterday that he was immediately suspending the use of masks by officers.
Kalamazoo County Sheriff Rick Fuller is not ready to go that far but says he will be restricting their use.
He told the county board last night that protecting the public is their primary job, but building community is also a priority.
Chief Boysen had already modified the policy last month to limit the use of masks and require that all officers wear their name badges. He has now taken the additional step to suspend their use.
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