Memphis PD decides to send First 48 packing

Brianzz · Memphis PD decides to send First 48 packing

Once again, local do-gooders who are obviously on the DA's under the table payroll get their way in Memphis. They say the show portrayed Memphis in a bad light, besides being one of the most dangerous crime riddled cities in the United States I thought the show served as a fair warning to anyone that even dreamed of going to Memphis. If I worked at A&E I'd find the episodes that showed the most bumbling local yokels and run them every chance I got to make sure everyone saw them at least once and would never go to Memphis.

MEMPHIS, TN – Memphis Police Department Director Larry Godwin issued a statement, Tuesday, August 05, 2008, stating that the MPD will not renew its contract with the A&E Television Network show “The First 48”.

This comes after Attorney General Bill Gibbons wrote a letter to Director Godwin, urging him not to renew MPD's contract with "The First 48". Gibbons said that an episode that showed Jessie Dotson's confession, the man accused of killing his brother along with three other adults and two children, may have violated Tennessee Supreme Court Rules. Gibbons said that court rules prohibit comments on possible evidence, confessions by suspects and other matters regarding upcoming court cases.

This makes the second time Godwin has decided to sever ties with the A&E show. Originally, Godwin decided not renew the contract because city leaders felt it portrayed Memphis in a bad light.

This is a statement issued by Memphis Police Director Larry Godwin:

As Director of Police Services, I have reviewed and carefully considered the concerns expressed by District Attorney Bill Gibbons, community leaders, and more importantly my staff concerning the show "First 48". First and foremost, our goal is to provide safety and solve crime for the citizens of Memphis. In an effort to prevent future disruptions or distractions from interfering with our goal, I have decided not to renew the contract with "First 48".