Birmingham FOP Considers Vote of No Confidence in BPD Chief and Commanders

Birmingham, Alabama – A potential vote of no confidence is being mulled over for Birmingham Police Department (BPD) Chief Scott Thurmond and his commanders. The Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), Birmingham, alleges low officer morale and lack of robust leadership.

Low Morale and Leadership Issues

Lawrence Billups, the Vice President of the Birmingham chapter of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), has expressed serious concerns over the city’s police leadership. During a news conference on Tuesday, he revealed a motion proposing a vote of no confidence against BPD chief Scott Thurmond. This motion was initially brought forth during an FOP meeting held on June 4, 2024. With the motion presented, it is expected to proceed to a vote involving the full membership of the FOP.

Billups claims that the critical leadership issues have led to poor officer recruitment, low officers’ retention rate, and an overall low morale within the BPD. His concerns reverberate the sentiments he shared in May when he initially raised issues about the lack of leadership within the force.

A Plea for Strong Leadership

When asked about what the F.O.P desires in their leadership, Billups responded, “We just want someone to lead us. Someone coming in with enough confidence to say this is the direction we’re going in. This is my plan for the Birmingham police department.”

Birmingham Mayor Support for BPD Leadership

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin issued a statement expressing his support for BPD’s leadership. He commented, “I support BPD leadership. FOP leadership and I are in constant communication. They understand the challenges our officers face and we work in tandem to address them.” He termed the votes of no confidence as unfortunate distractions and expressed a desire for unity in the entire force.

Citizen’s Perception

Interestingly, Birmingham residents share diverse views about the Police Department’s state. New residents like Edgar Roach, moved from California four months ago, expressed confidence in BPD’s operations. On the other hand, lifetime Birmingham resident Alfred East feels BPD’s operations have declined over time despite feeling generally confident in them.

Pending Vote of No Confidence

The no confidence vote will put not only Chief Scott Thurmond’s position at stake next month but that of Assistant Chief LaQuaylin Mack, Deputy Chief Michael Pickett, Deputy Chief Sheila Finney, and Deputy Chief Onree Pruitt as well.

Closing Thoughts

The sweeping dissatisfaction with command leadership and the upcoming vote of no confidence imply turbulent times ahead for BPD’s leadership unless there is decisive intervention—the result of the vote of no confidence remains to be seen in the coming months.