VIDEO: "Blue Flu" Allegedly Hits Memphis Police
Memphis (Tenn.) Police are reporting that 181 officers have called in sick over the past week, allegedly in response to sweeping benefits cuts.
Memphis Police Director Toney Armstrong has responded to numerous questions about staffing levels at police stations.
Armstrong told WREG-TV that 181 officers have called in sick since June 30, 2014.
The police department did not put that number in perspective compared with the same time period in recent years.
The statement said in part, "Memphis Police Department is re-grouping the manpower in an effort to provide continuity to the citizens of Memphis."
The Shelby County (Tenn.) Sheriff’s Office has agreed to assist with operations on Beale Street as they have done in the past.
The Memphis Police Association denies sanctioning any kind of sick-out.