Greenfield Police Respond to Sheriff Clarke's 'Protect Yourself' Ad

The Greenfield Police Department did its best to separate itself from comments made by Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke in Clarke's recent radio ad that urges listeners to arm and defend themselves "until we get there."

In a statement released on its Facebook page, the Greenfield Police Department said Greenfield residents should know:

"No Greenfield officers have been laid off or furloughed;

"Violent crime is down overall and in Greenfield;

"Our response time to violent crime is less than 2 minutes;

"The decision to arm yourself with a firearm is a very personal and private decision that should not be driven by fear that our officers will not respond to your calls for help."

The department suggested if readers do make the decision to own or carry a gun, they should consider taking the department's concealed carry class, hunter safety and education course or join the Citizen Police Academy.

"The men and women of the Greenfield Police Department work tirelessly to promote a feeling of safety and security for our residents," Chief Brad Wentlandt said in an email to elected officials in response to Clarke's ad. "When bad things do happen, our response is swift and our investigative skills are top notch. Our clearance rate for violent crime is one of the highest."

The radio ad reads:

"I’m Sheriff David Clarke and I want to talk to you about something personal.

"Your Safety.

"It’s no longer a spectator sport. I need you in the game. But are you ready?

"With officers laid off and furloughed, simply calling 911 and waiting is no longer your best option.

"You could beg for mercy from a violent criminal, hide under the bed, or you can fight back. But are you prepared?”

"Consider taking a certified safety course in handling a firearm so you can defend yourself until WE get there.

"You have a duty to protect yourself and your family.

"We’re partners now. Can I count on you?