STATE POLICE SEEKING TO UNIONIZE - "The Whole Organization Has Broken Down"

(01/28/2002)

Members of the West Virginia State Police are tired of "people getting fired, demoted and suspended," according to Dave Moye, executive director of the West Virginia Troopers Association. Moye said 90% of the troopers are disgruntled with Superintendent Howard Hill, in interviews Moye gave to Charleston Newspapers and Metro News. A survey has been mailed to the troopers regarding affiliation with the National Coalition of Public Safety Officers, a branch of the Communications Workers of America. "The survey will speak volumes," said Moye. Moye said the organization has lost 51 troopers because of problems, but Superintendent Howard Hill said 31 retired, 13 resigned, 23 were suspended from one to 30 days and six were fired. Hill made no excuse for his efforts as head of the agency. "I guess they can say what they want. I have suspended a few.... Whatever I do, I do what's right for the state of West Virginia and for the State Police." He said during the last year forty people were counseled and 78 officers received reprimands. Moye claims "The whole organization of the State Police has broken down." The West Virginia Legislature continues to investigate multiple problems around the state related to professional misconduct and police abuse, with several cases being reported in the media and dozens of suits being filed against officers. Hearings have been held on problems related to the internal review of officers - a "green on green" process which shies away from public accountability. Moye, the head of the West Virginia Troopers Association said 98% of the troopers belong to the organization. Moye was considered a finalist for the head of the agency, but Gov. Wise appointed Hill. Moye is a former state trooper and is now an attorney.

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