Officers Unite to Help Laid off Fresno Police Volunteer
Mike Webb has been a Fresno PD volunteer for 37 years
Fresno Police Department volunteer Mike Webb served under six police chiefs. The 37 year veteran loves what he does and has no desire to retire.
Webb is no ordinary volunteer. He’s been walking the halls of Fresno PD since 1985.
He has special needs and was first hired by Chief Max Downs to work in the records bureau. His duties changed over the years but he’s flexible.
“I like it very much… right now very much.”
Captain Don Gross is his supervisor. “Mike is a very cherished and loved individual in our organization. I’ve been here 31 years and when I started I remember Mike being here.”
When Webb started at the police department he was a part-time employee. But the city charter restricts the length of time a person can work part-time. Mike was essentially laid off but he has no intentions of leaving so he volunteers.
“The guys yeah they still want me here so I’m gonna be here for a long time.”
The small salary Mike used to receive helped his elderly parents pay bills. During December the Fresno Police Chaplaincy is allowing donations to be designated for Mike Webb.
“We wanted to make sure he has a little bit of extra money, has some compensation to go along with the time he spends here.”
Mike is an early riser. The city bus gets him to the office just after seven. His first assigned duty is raising the flag.
“Mike’s enthusiasm is infectious and again I couldn’t imagine the 37 years he’s been here that he’s brought to officers.”
In February 2015 former Mayor Ashley Swearengin issued a proclamation designating Mike Webb day for this 30 years of service. Former chief Jerry Dyer was there to honor him.
The badge carrying volunteer has made quite an impression over the years and the men and women in uniform believe he should be rewarded for dedicated service.
If you would like to donate, checks can be sent to Mike Webb c/o Fresno Police Chaplaincy, 905 Fulton Street, Fresno, CA 93728.
There is also a gofundme link: https://gofund.me/f1ff1e16.
by Rich Rodriguez/FOX26