News (Media Awareness Project) - US MS: Narcotics Bureau |
| Title: | US MS: Narcotics Bureau |
| Published On: | 2002-12-05 |
| Source: | Clarion-Ledger, The (MS) |
| Fetched On: | 2008-08-29 07:29:16 |
NARCOTICS BUREAU
Melton Could Increase Its Visibility
Gov. Ronnie Musgrove' s decision to name WLBT-Channel 3 CEO Frank Melton to head the Bureau of Narcotics is sure to spark controversy, encouraging some, enraging others.
The outspoken head of the local NBC TV affiliate has amassed fans and
critics with his no-nonsense commentary dubbed "The Bottom Line."
Lined up against him will be those who will point to his inexperience in law
enforcement, which Melton acknowledges.
Melton replaces Don Strange, a career law enforcement professional with
impressive credentials as former chief of intelligence for the U.S. Drug
Enforcement Administration. Strange resigned last month citing budget
cutbacks.
But Melton, who has a 27-year career in broadcasting, has been a sterling
advocate and volunteer in promoting anti-drug programs and getting at-risk
kids off the streets.
His caring, personal and committed involvement with youth emphasizing "tough
love" and turning street gang members around has been a benefit to the
community that has earned him widespread respect. And he has offered his
experience as a member of the state Board of Education.
Metro area TV watchers are familiar with his views and activities, but
others in the state not so exposed to his presence may be in for an
eye-opener. Some may be put off by his bluntness, but many will find it
refreshing.
His philosophy might best be expressed by what he told kids last month at
the Clinton Junior High Parent-Teacher-Student Association's annual "Man to
Man" breakfast: "Life is about choices. It's not about making excuses."
The father of two and foster father of 15 suggested students focus on four
things: faith in God, faith in family, getting a quality education and
volunteerism.
Melton has proven that he "walks the talk."
Whatever his shortcomings in law enforcement experience (and however that
may play out), Melton should at least increase the public visibility of the
Narcotics Bureau.
He could use the position as a platform to give emphasis and action to his
philosophy on drugs and delinquency. And Mississippi could benefit from his
straight talk about a serious problem facing youth that more often than not
carries over into adulthood with tragic consequences.
Melton Could Increase Its Visibility
Gov. Ronnie Musgrove' s decision to name WLBT-Channel 3 CEO Frank Melton to head the Bureau of Narcotics is sure to spark controversy, encouraging some, enraging others.
The outspoken head of the local NBC TV affiliate has amassed fans and
critics with his no-nonsense commentary dubbed "The Bottom Line."
Lined up against him will be those who will point to his inexperience in law
enforcement, which Melton acknowledges.
Melton replaces Don Strange, a career law enforcement professional with
impressive credentials as former chief of intelligence for the U.S. Drug
Enforcement Administration. Strange resigned last month citing budget
cutbacks.
But Melton, who has a 27-year career in broadcasting, has been a sterling
advocate and volunteer in promoting anti-drug programs and getting at-risk
kids off the streets.
His caring, personal and committed involvement with youth emphasizing "tough
love" and turning street gang members around has been a benefit to the
community that has earned him widespread respect. And he has offered his
experience as a member of the state Board of Education.
Metro area TV watchers are familiar with his views and activities, but
others in the state not so exposed to his presence may be in for an
eye-opener. Some may be put off by his bluntness, but many will find it
refreshing.
His philosophy might best be expressed by what he told kids last month at
the Clinton Junior High Parent-Teacher-Student Association's annual "Man to
Man" breakfast: "Life is about choices. It's not about making excuses."
The father of two and foster father of 15 suggested students focus on four
things: faith in God, faith in family, getting a quality education and
volunteerism.
Melton has proven that he "walks the talk."
Whatever his shortcomings in law enforcement experience (and however that
may play out), Melton should at least increase the public visibility of the
Narcotics Bureau.
He could use the position as a platform to give emphasis and action to his
philosophy on drugs and delinquency. And Mississippi could benefit from his
straight talk about a serious problem facing youth that more often than not
carries over into adulthood with tragic consequences.
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