The Ripple Effects

Law enforcement is one of the most demanding professions, requiring officers to navigate high-stress situations, make split-second decisions, and face potential danger daily. Officers respond to emergencies, mediate conflicts, investigate crimes, and engage with diverse communities, often under intense scrutiny. In our careers, few things sting as sharply as pouring your heart, time, and energy into your career, only to find that politicians, administrators, or decision-makers fail to recognize your worth.

This feeling is all too common. Feeling unworthy breeds frustration, resentment, and cynicism. When questions are asked, we are the ones who are wrong. It stings when you take a pay cut because of an increase none of us control. It stings when other agencies are getting their PERS increase covered. Metro police officers serve as the backbone of public safety, tasked with maintaining order, protecting our community, and upholding the rule of law.

However, when officers feel undervalued, whether through lack of public support or inadequate resources, the consequences have a ripple effect. A lack of appreciation and respect from politicians from both city and county plummets morale. Low morale leads to burnout, stress, and mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. The department has taken extraordinary strides forward with officer wellness. It’s about time local and state politicians followed suit. If the politicians took a pay decrease, they’d be a little upset about it.

Every election cycle all we hear is, “We support law enforcement.” Well, how about now? Support us by helping put money back in our cops’ pockets. Or should we just be happy with what we make? You show up day after day, protecting our community with grit and determination you expect your contributions to be acknowledged, not just with a pat on the back, but with tangible rewards.

It’s easy for politicians to tell you, “You should be grateful for what you do make,” or through their own ignorance tell you, “We are not currently negotiating.” It’s easy for politicians to blow you off and not think twice about the work you put in day in and day out. The consequences of uncompensated effort extend beyond emotions. When employees feel undervalued, they’re more likely to disengage, leading to lower productivity, higher turnover, and a weaker organizational culture. Talented workers may seek opportunities elsewhere, leaving behind a workforce that’s either burned out or apathetic.

For the organization, this is a loss of human capital that’s hard to replace. For the employee, it’s a loss of time, energy, and faith in the system. The smart move for politicians would be to realize they need to get something done. But why would you do that …?