The future police chief of Farrell, Pennsylvania, revealed his true sentiments when it comes to race. According to WKBN, Thomas Burke sent an email in April that contained the N-word.
The email was sent to several of his colleagues in relation to an upcoming fundraiser. But Burke used the platform to spew racism and hate. In the email, Burke wrote, “Good morning. Please click and review. Even a one dollar will be greatly appreciated. Them Sharon n—–rs gotta learn how to read.”
The email was eventually leaked and Burke decided to get ahead of the backlash by making a public apology. Burke was eventually forgiven for his act by Mayor Olive McKeithan, who is Black. However, the local NAACP chapter is planning a meeting to see if any further action should be taken against Burke.
It’s apparent that Burke does not deserve to be in a position of power. If he has the audacity to use the N-word with a racial stereotype in an email, he’s more than comfortable with using it in a private setting. That means he’s comfortable with being a racist, which could lead to biased actions. With tensions rising between police and the Black community in cities throughout the nation, a person with known racist attitudes should not be allowed to be chief of police.
However, Burke is currently scheduled to start his term as police chief in January.
