THE HIGH POINT ENTERPRISE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2009 www.hpe.com
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Women in the High Point Police Department’s history JANE MOXLEY
LOUISE TOMLIN
On July 12, 1928, she was unanimousMs. Louise Tomlin made history with ly elected by the City Council as Girls’ the High Point Police Department in Commissioner and Police Woman at a 1954 when she took the oath to become salary of $135/month. an officer. Ms. Tomlin was one of the first two female police officers hired by the City of High Point. Up until Tomlin’s METER MAIDS When walking through the halls of the employment with the police department, department today, it is not at all consid- the only women who worked at the poered unusual to see female officers in lice station were switchboard operators. Having a woman in uniform was a huge uniform. However, 55 years ago, three ladies shock to the department. Ms. Tomlin was working two other took the law enforcement oath and, by doing so, broke the gender barriers of jobs when she saw an advertisement in the paper for a police job for $200 per the High Point Police Dept. Although they never walked or pa- month. She was required to take a test, trolled a beat in the city, these women in which she made a 98% competency, are recognized for paving the way for all and after a few weeks, she was asked to come see the chief of police. the female officers working today. Ms. Tomlin’s career with the High On October 1, 1954 the Chief of the High Point Police Dept. let women take Point Police Dept. continued for 28 the oath of law enforcement primarily years. She worked in the traffic control division as a Meter Maid, writing parkto save money. By hiring women, as opposed to their ing tickets around the city. In 1978, she male counterparts, the city found that it received the North Carolina Law Enwould be able to save $200 each month forcement Women’s Association’s Offiby allowing them to check parking me- cer of the Year award. In the year that followed, she was proters within the city. By keeping their dignity and profes- moted to the rank of police officer. As sionalism, and never being bitter to- such, she acted as the youth investigawards the obstacles they faced, these tions officer and Crossing/Taxi Cab Inwomen made history and secured a spector until her retirement in 1981. Ms. Tomlin was known for her profesplace for other women to come in the sionalism as a police officer, her friendHigh Point Police Dept.
ly personality, and her loyalty to the department. Ms. Tomlin passed away on Nov. 12, 1999 at the High Point Regional Hospital, one day before her 80th birthday.
CAROLYN SUE COOKE (SUZIE BEAN) She began her career with the department years earlier as a secretary and took the oath to become a police woman in 1970. In 1968, she had created HPPD’s current shoulder patch. She was the second woman to rise to the rank of sergeant, and was the first to become a female lieutenant.
SALLY CRANFORD/COOK On April 2,1973, this ambitious young woman became a sworn member of the High Point Police Department, beginning her career by checking parking meters. Her desire, however, was to become a police officer. Finally, after learning about female officers at the Greensboro and Winston Salem Police Departments, she approached the High Point police chief and city manager in regards to her being permitted to patrol a beat. At 35, Sally was able to meet the men’s minimum weight and height requirements, which were at that time a minimum height of 5’9”, and a minimum weight of 160. Although the police chief was doubtful of her objective, he allowed
her to attempt her ambition anyway. While in the academy, she found herself competing with men much younger than she, and fresh out of the military. Still, her stubborn personality would not allow her to quit. As the very first woman to actually train for the High Point Police Department, Sally knew she would have to prove herself to her male counterparts. As she patrolled her beat in the West End area, the reaction to her presence was that of “if you were a man, I would hit you, but since you’re a lady I’ll go with you.” Completely capable of handling the job of a police officer, she possessed the qualities needed to be a contender in a male-dominated career field. Treating her new position in the police department as a promotion, Sally did obtain one benefit over her original sworn position as a meter checker: the city bought her uniform, complete with pants, as opposed to the original skirt and blouse uniforms. This event was very noteworthy, seeing as how we all know that you just simply cannot fight while wearing a skirt. In Sally’s career with the High Point Police Dept., she received the honor of being named “Officer of the Month” in February 1975, as well as winning several honors in various shooting tournaments.
Partnering with High Point Community Against Violence The High Point Police Department is making efforts in every direction to protect and serve the citizens of High Point. Our Police Department has a longstanding tradition of dedication and commitment to effective law enforcement. In recent years this commitment and community awareness has dared to explore new visions in community safety. Almost 12 years ago, a grassroots organization was formed that is now known as the High Point Community Against Violence, Inc
(HPCAV). The High Point Police Department adopted HPCAV and made this organization its chief partner in confronting crime on every level and perspective. Officer Jim Summey is the HPCAV Executive Director. HPCAV is a community voice that stands with the Police Department working with the latest community policing efforts, many of which were tested and proved right here in High Point. These efforts are centered on “focused deterrence” where police implemented intelligence to
pin- point problem crime areas and the major perpetrators. The community’s voice combines with law enforcement to tell the offenders that their behavior will not be tolerated. HPCAV will assist offenders in changing their behavior, but if they re-offend, forceful prosecution will be pursued. High Point Community Against Violence is grateful for the HPPD and stands ready to assist them in any way to make High Point a safe and thriving community for everyone.