Jan 2024. Blues Vol 40 No. 1

Mercy and Grace
Chief Taylor offered additional insight
into his approach to policing. He
explained that two central values in
his life are granting others mercy and
grace. He defines mercy as the compassion
shown toward someone whom
it is within one’s power to punish and
grace as under served favor towards
another person. In his interactions on
camera in On Patrol Live, we have observed
countless times his innate ability
to talk to people, de-escalate potential
increasing conflict, and encourage
others to tell the truth. He pointed out
that conflict can first begin when the
lights are activated. His down-to-earth,
calm, but no-nonsense demeanor has
received countless praise throughout
the nation. However, there has also
been some criticism from policing professionals
who are concerned about
his and his officers’ safety when they
approach a vehicle or detain a possible
suspect. The Chief clarified that safety
is first and foremost and that at no time
are their guards let down. Make no mistake,
one of the reasons for the Chief’s
popularity is that he can still effectively
police but can also treat people with
respect and dignity when appropriate.
He and his officers have been very successful
in traffic stops that have resulted
in high dollar seizures of significant
amounts of illegal drugs and countless
arrests.
Time to Hunt and Reflect
Chief Taylor is unquestionably an avid
hunter. As we sat in his office, I noticed
numerous mounted animal trophies,
including deer and various game birds.
Perhaps the most striking is the rattlesnake
on the filing cabinet! Several
pictures hang on the walls commemorating
past hunting trips with family
and friends. Recently, the Chief and his
family traveled to Texas to spend quality
time hunting and to take a few to reflect
on the year and life’s blessings. This is
his “down time” and a much-needed
break from a busy career. As I read some
of the comments during this period of
absence in the On Patrol Live Facebook
forum, it was clear that the Chief and
his officers were greatly missed by the
viewers.
84 The Blues - January ‘24