New Fort Myers chief seeks crime control -- but reckless drivers beware

Jason Fields, a 23-year veteran of the Fort Myers Police Department, was sworn in as its chief Wednesday night, with a pledge to help Fort Myers become among the safest cities for its size across the country.

In an interview after a positive-energy ceremony, Fields indicated that police enforcement of traffic safety measures may become a bigger issue

"I'm going to have to look at every unit, every division, looking for strengths and weaknesses because I want to be sure we are operating the best we possibly can," he said.

But as dangerous traffic crashes continue to mount on the region's roads, the new chief says officers will place more emphasis on controlling dangerous driving habits within city limit.

"Some things I want to have control of − combating crime both violent crime and traffic. We have too many people driving recklessly, too many people getting hurt, serious bodily injuries, getting killed in car crashes that are completely unnecessary," Fields said in an interview with The New-Press. "It’s about tickets, but it's about education, too. But, yes, we need to make a presence and it comes from traffic enforcement."

The swearing-in ceremony came as Fields took over from the retiring acting Chief Randall Pepitone, who came to Fort Myers as a top aide to the late Chief Derrick Diggs. Pepitone served for about a year after Diggs was diagnosed with cancer.

Fort Myers had a strong effect on Pepitone - he and his wife plan to retire and move to Fort Myers, after his wife, who also works in law enforcement, retires.

Political figures and fellow police officers greeted Fields, who hailed his ascent to the top job on the police force. Part of the ceremony saw members of the city council who did not initially support Fields' appointment to the job join in supporting him. Council member Johnnie Streets told of a recent meeting he had with Fields.

"I know that when you and I had that conversation last week, that everything’s put behind us, I pledged to support you and your police department. I said that you can’t be the chief all by yourself, you have the 299 other police (officers) who are an extension of you, and I know that  they will serve the city of Fort Myers as faithfully as you did."

Mayor Kevin Anderson, a former major in the Fort Myers police department, stood with City Manger Marty Lawing, who favored another candidate. But when that candidate was no longer on the city's radar, Anderson supported Fields.

"It was a tough selection process, as you know I was one who supported the city manger. I believe it was not up to elected officials to select the chief, it was up to the city manager, and to us to approve the appointment" Anderson said. "Chief, it's an honor to call you that, you have my support, I am thrilled."

Fields also thanked public officials and told colleagues on the city council that he wants to work together "to continue to do great things for this city;" and recognized community groups for their support.

"Our residents and stakeholders, throughout my career, I have witnessed your unwavering support through the best and worst of times. My decisions will be well thought out while keeping a positive attitude," Fields said. "I will stand beside you throughout accomplishments, adversities and obstacles our agency may face."

In addition to his wife, Fields wife and two adult daughters attended the ceremony, and as the day faded, the new chief stood for photos with members of the public and the department.

In closing remarks, Fields said he believes in supporting police officers.

"I want to make a police department where everybody loves coming to work," he said "I do believe in officer wellness, for us to take care of others we have to take care of ourselves."

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Fort Myers Police Chief Jason Fields sworn in, pledges safe city