Local Tempe business owner creates law enforcement advocacy group

Local Tempe business owner Mike Bradley, who is the President and CEO of security firm, ECD Systems, LLC, says he is creating a Tempe business-driven initiative to support the Tempe Police Department which has been hit by several controversies recently, including the resignation of its Chief, amid allegations the police have used unnecessary force against the city's Black and Latino residents. Bradley, whose company is involved in a wide-range of high-tech security and information services says his initiative will be called True Blue Tempe and will serve as a platform for local businesses to support the Tempe Police Department.

“As a business owner whose own father was a police officer for 18 years, I understand the value of having a police department that is backed by its local community,” Bradley said. “Our police officers help to maintain law and order which means mutual respect and support is necessary in order for society to flourish. This in turn establishes a safe environment for businesses to prosper. When law and order is compromised, businesses suffer.”

Bradley's initiative is getting support from rank and file police officers in Tempe. Assistant Police Chief Michael Pooley said Tempe police welcome support from the community.

“When Mike first reached out with this initiative, we were blown away by his passion and thoughtfulness, especially during a time of wavering support this year,” Pooley said. “As our officers see this growing support from our community it encourages them to continue to do the great work they have always done.”

Some African-American and Latino residents of Tempe have accused the force of using excessive force against their communities. In 2019, a Tempe police officer shot and killed 14-year old Antonio Arce. This year, police were accused of using excessive force against Black Lives Matter protestors and against an African American man who was involved in a car accident. ASU Justice Studies graduate student Miriam A. who declined to give her last name, called for defunding the police.

“Tempe police department is part of a systemically racist, anti-black system,” Miriam A., the representative from the Black African Coalition and justice studies graduate student said.

In September, City Manager Andrew Ching asked for and received the resignation of Police Chief Sylvia Moir saying he wanted to make significant and long-term changes to the department.

To counter the narrative that Tempe Police act unfairly towards residents of color, True Blue Tempe advocates with public officials on behalf of police officers and features profiles of outstanding officers on its website.

As of right now, 14 businesses have joined the True Blue initiative with Bradley aiming to attract up to 100 others by the end of 2020.

“[I] firmly believe that business leaders must stand together for what they believe in, without fear of people disagreeing with their beliefs. By standing united for a greater cause, business leaders can influence powerful change and make a positive impact on their local police department and community,” Bradley said.