Benjamin Rockmore, Ph.D.
9 Investigates discovered Sanford police officers competing for a promotion won’t be evaluated by their boss.
The city is spending thousands of dollars to hire an outside firm to decide who will become sergeant or lieutenant.
“We put everyone on the same playing field. If you study for the test, if you’re prepared for the next level, you get to show that to someone other than us,” said Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith.
Last year, that cost the city $47.000. This year, it will cost about $22,000.
University of Central Florida management professor Dr. Benjamin Rockmore said the cost is worth it to eliminate potential for bias, especially in a city with a history of tension like Sanford.
“Although you may be spending your funds differently, hopefully what you’re doing is increasing the quality,” Rockmore said.