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Indy’s Public Safety Director talks about Baltimore

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Chief Rick Hite spent more than 30 years with the Baltimore Police Department.

During his time there he rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Recently, there has been rioting in Baltimore after a man died while in police custody.

Hite released a statement in wake of the Baltimore riots.

In difficult times like these, it is not uncommon to hear threats made nationwide. Be assured the IMPD, along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, are monitoring any and all threats. As always, we will continue to dialogue and collaborate with the Indianapolis community to maintain our peaceful relationships and keep our city safe.

Indianapolis Public Safety Director Troy Riggs expressed concern for Baltimore. He added that Baltimore has some of the same issues that Indianapolis is facing.

However, two years ago Indianapolis changed the complaint system against officers that has sped up the process.

In the past it took at least 8 months to address complaints against officers, that process is done in less than five months.

“We get calls from other cities asking how did you revamp the disciplinary process we want a system that is fair and gives good feedback to citizens,” said Riggs.

Some police officers welcomed the changes in the complaint process because it clears up fake accusations.