Meeting Police Chief Candidates

(WOLO) COLUMBIA,S.C. ,– Crowds of citizens and city leaders packed city hall to hear from the 4 candidates vying for the job as Columbia’s new top cop. Some residents were upset they were not able to address the candidates with their own questions during the meeting, and rather had to listen to answers from pre-selected questions emailed prior to the event. Still, most residents listened to each of the candidates answer questions ranging from what they would do first if they were elected chief, to politics and policing and would they be willing to do what is right even if it mean losing their job. Here is how the four candidates answered. Colonel Gregory Reese says ” If we don’t have our honor, we have nothing. So I’m sorry but if i can not live in an environment of trust, accountability and readiness then i can not be your police chief.” Chief Bryan Norwood says ” i can tell you one thing is true about all types of government, there are politics. But i have no problem saying no. I have no problem saying no and I have no problem answering questions either.” Chief William Holbrook says ” I think it is paramount to always do the right things for the right reasons. But again what is constitutionally, morally and ethically right.” Chief A. Tony Fisher says “integrity and accountability are really the hallmarks and foundation of a value system of service.” City Manager Teresa Wilson plans to make a decision by mid March.