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It will be the topic at church services on Sunday morning, at least in Southwest Fresno – the arrest of Fresno’s Deputy Chief of Police, Keith Foster.
Foster was not only a high ranking officer in the department, he was also a prominent figure in the African-American community of Fresno. He was arrested Thursday on drug charges. Foster has been accused of conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, heroin and marijuana.
Reverend Paul McCoy with New Light for New Life Church said on Saturday that Foster inspired the young people of the local African-American community. Though McCoy admits he was shocked at the allegations against Foster, he said, that’s just what they are at this point- allegations.
"What has occurred, I’m still trying to absorb it, and waiting on what else is going to come out," commented McCoy.
McCoy said he has been friends with Foster for close to 20 years and knows his family quite well too.
He said, "Deputy Chief Foster has facilitated many issues between the African-American community and the police department."
McCoy said Foster has given back to the same community where he was raised, inspiring young black men to persevere during tumultuous times.
"He has not failed us. He’s in a situation right now that his stature and all that he has done and is created, still holds firm," exclaimed McCoy.
But others in the Fresno community disagree, and can’t help but feel disappointed.
Demontrel Vernon, a young African-American male said, "For someone who was an inspiration to young men and going around giving advice to people, telling them he shouldn’t be doing these things, and then to turn around and find out he was selling drugs. That’s kind of hypocritical."
McCoy, however, asks those like Vernon to be patient, and stay informed on the case.
Chief Jerry Dyer has said he did never saw any clues to point him to the allegations against Foster. In a press conference on Friday, Dyer said he and Foster were close friends, but stated, "There is no relationship, there is no friendship that is worth compromising the integrity of the law enforcement organization."
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