Chief Knight should step down, sergeant said

Police chief should step down, sergeant says

By SILVIO J. PANTA

Staff Writer

El Centro Police Chief Leonard Knight has no trust or confidence in his personnel and was asked Wednesday by a sergeant to step down for the safety of officers.

Sgt. Jeff Mason’s grim commentary was directed to the El Centro City Council as Knight sat quietly behind him looking down.

More than 20 stern-looking police officers attended the long meeting, along with a smattering of administrative workers.

Knight did not rebut Mason’s assertions during the public comments segment of the meeting that was scheduled after 8 p.m.

“We have participated in three team building workshop sessions, which have failed miserably,” Mason said. “It has become evident that the necessary changes will not occur during Chief Knight’s tenure.”

“Therefore, for the safety of our officers and the betterment of our community, we ask that Chief Knight step down as chief of police of the El Centro Police Department,” he said.