It started last Thursday, June 7 at Shreveport four SPAR public pools--Airport Park, Bill Cockrell Park, David Raines Park and Southern Hills Park.
Reports of Shreveport Police Department officers at these pools have been confirmed. The officers are at these pools during the hours of operation--12:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.
These pools have lifeguards to ensure the safety of those in the water. The officers are on location to prevent any fights/disturbances by those in the pool and the pool area.
Most if not all of the SPD officers at the pools reportedly are ON-DUTY. Yes, not an off-duty gig but part of their normal work day. And needless to say, standing in full uniform/gear in the sun at pool is not a fun assignment.
These reports raise several questions:
1. Why is security needed at SPAR pools?
2. If violence is a problem at the pools, should they be closed or at least those causing problems expelled from all SPAR pools?
3. Why should SPD, either on duty or off duty, perform security services versus a private company?
4. If a violent incident occurs outside the pool in any adjoining neighborhood, are the SPD officers at the pool dispatched to handle that situation?
The Shreveport City Council has its work session today at 3 p.m. Hopefully these questions will be asked.