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"Policing
Facts vs.
Smoke & Mirrors"
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Like
much of the progress obtained in policing in
America, the Cleveland Police Patrolmen's
Association was born out of the most tragic day in
the history of the Cleveland Police Department.
On July 23, 1968, in the Glenville Section of the city,
rioting militants murdered three of our own, and a
fourth officer died years later as result of his
injuries inflicted that day. While there was no
shortage of valor, courage and relentless spirit
among the officers that finally brought calm back to
the city that day, there was an obvious shortage of
necessary equipment which could have saved the lives
of police officers as well as the brave civilians
who attempted to save them.
Under the guidance and assistance of the Boston
Police Patrolmen's Association, the CPPA was formed
in January, 1969 and became the labor union for all
non-supervisory Patrol Officers. Prior to the
formation of our Association, our officers took
their chances in Cuyahoga County Common Pleas Court
to address any grievances. Through successful labor
contracts, work hours, sick and vacation time off,
and worker rights quickly replaced blanket
mistreatment of patrol officers. Out of the tragedy
of the Glenville Riots and due to the loud voices of the
survivors who fought that day, street officers were
soon issued portable radios which enabled citywide
communications. Also, the fist Tactical Unit was
formed, which trained and equipped specific officers
to respond to especially dangerous situations such
as riots and barricaded suspects. This valuable
unit later became the modern day Special Weapons
and Tactics Unit, or SWAT.
The 1450 member CPPA now serves as the
bargaining unit for all non-supervisory Patrol
Officers, Detectives, and Radio Dispatchers.
The Association was formed in 1969 to provide
mutual aid and protection, to provide for the
general welfare of our members, and for the
betterment of all Patrol Officers, their families,
and members of this community. Our commitment and
purpose is the continuance and furtherance of our
pledge to strengthen and unite our members in our
struggles to protect our rights and achieve our
goals. The Association, Board of Directors,
and Executive Board shall also:
- Undertake to increase the professional
status of all members, by engaging in
educational programs and classes, public forums,
the issuance of publications, enhancing
community relations and all other things
necessary to meet the increased responsibilities
of police in today's society.
- Undertake the relief of distressed members,
their widows, and orphans, and promote the
general welfare of the orphans and needy of
Greater Cleveland.
- Ensure that sound business practices are
enacted and preserved; that all holdings and
assets of the Association are protected against
theft, fraud, and mismanagement; and that
efficient and cost effective operations are
adopted and practiced on a day to day basis.
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