Some concerned over lack of black police leadership in Lower Merion

Of Lower Merion Township’s 140 police officers, three are black.

It’s a statement Rev. Albert Davis made at last night’s township Board of Commissioners meeting during a discussion about openings in the department.

Davis, president of the Main Line chapter of the NAACP, was joined by others who expressed concern over the lack of an African-American presence in the department.

The Main Line Times reports Supt. Michael McGrath called the concerns “baseless allegations,” though many are calling for an investigation. Officer Kerry  Godbold said at the meeting no black officer has ever been promoted to sergeant or higher, and none has completed 25 years of service in the department.

McGrath said the focus now should be on filling the eight open officer positions, not promotions.

Board members appeared open to the investigation, which former FOP Lodge 28 President Rich Kramer asked be conducted by a party unaffiliated with the department and the township manager’s office.