Sartell PD Dropping Blue Line Flag Decals, Working on Alternative

(KNSI) – The Sartell Police Department has dropped its blue line flag decal from its squad cars and replaced it with a new decal.

A statement from Sartell Police Chief Jim Hughes says, “Words alone seem inadequate to say thank you for all of the support regarding the flag on the police department squads. This decision to remove was not an easy one. We had to think about the safety of officers, support staff, reserve officers and firefighters that work daily at the public safety facility, but most importantly our priority is you, the community that we need to provide assistance to in your time of need. We want our community to feel safe to come to our building to report a crime, register for permits, get advice and guidance from a police officer or even use the Safe Room to escape an abuser they are fleeing, and this is the best course of action to keep this intact.”

According to the Sartell Police Department, they’re working on a new decal design to represent why they had the blue line flag. The Sartell PD says it’s to remember the officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.

Hughes says there will be no confusion about that or what the decal stands for, and the decal will be displayed with pride. (See the concept design above)

Four months ago, a Sartell resident raised concerns about the decals. Sartell resident Hannah Koloski drafted a petition arguing the blue line flag was a symbol that had been taken over by pro-policing groups like “blue lives matter” to mock calls for racial justice and police accountability.

Around 600 people signed the petition online. A counter-petition to keep the flag decal got approximately 1,200 signatures.

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