By Cherrie Anne E. Villahermosa
Variety News Staff

THE commissioner of the Department of Public Safety says she hasn’t heard or seen any letter petitioning for her removal on grounds that she doesn’t have a law enforcement background
Some police officers say they have heard that there is such a petition but they haven’t seen it either.
They also said that they are happy with Rebecca Warfield’s performance so far.
“I don’t know anything about a petition,” said Warfield, a former assistant attorney general. “When it comes to my background, the governor knew that when he designated me. I really don’t think that’s an issue. I haven’t heard of any petition, We don’t operate our department based on rumors. Ultimately, I answer to the community, the Governor and the Legislature. I haven’t heard of any complaint from any of them.”
Her predecessor, Mark Ernest Williams, was fired by the governor last year after senior DPS officials urged his removal.
The four police officers interviewed by this reporter said they have not heard of it and that it was probably only a rumor.
Some personnel have complaints about unpaid overtime, but Warfield said “it’s really a matter of tightening our belts and using our overtime responsively. Overtime is necessary – however, we have to use it wisely. I only want to make sure that we’re using our overtime and not abusing it or spending it on something that is not necessary because we don’t want to waste the public’s money. There are certain things that overtime is allowed for and there are certain things that overtime is not allowed for,” Warfield said.
“Were doing the best we can to be responsible and the community has responded positively to the department in the last few months. My biggest concern is that all the progress that we’ve made may be eroded because we can’t move — our hands are tied with regards to providing service, but the men and women here want to serve.”
She said she will do everything she can to get the things that the men and women of her department need.
“The officers — they are the lowest paid people in the government and, in most cases, they are willing to sacrifice their lives. But these officers need some respect and consideration and I will do everything to get the things that they need,” Warfield said.
Asked what her message is for DPS personnel, she said: “Believe in yourself. Believe in what we’re trying to do, and what we’re responsible for. This is a difficult period not only for the department but for the entire community. And regardless of limitations in funding, we have to make the most of what we have and never forget our pledge to the community and our dignity as individuals.”
She said the rank and file of DPS “need to have a voice — they’re the ones there in the field and we have to work together to make sure the department is strong and secure.”