The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1885-12-31
THE POLICE MIDDLE.
The Waters No Clearer than Before, Except
that Lang's Days Seem To Be Numbered.

The Police Commissioners held a meeting yes
terday morning, at which a result of the meet
ing on Monday manifested itself. At neither
consultation was Superintendent Lang present,
some thing out of the usual order, as that officer
is supposed to be always on hand, to compare
notes with his superiors when the general pro-
gramme of business is transacted 1t is well
understood that Mondays meeting had great
deal to do with an inquiry to the numerous
arrests of liquor dealers on Christmas or rather,
it referred to the manner in which the arrests
were brought about. Nor is it any longer Sc
cret that the Democratic members Of the board
are disinclined to coincide with the superln-
tendent concerning that matter. They be-
lieve that it was mistaken judgment on
his part to pursue the course he did, hence the
apparent need of inquiry. Yesterday, when they
came together again without the superntend-
ent's presence, the subject was reviewed, aud
again not at all complimentary to Lang. In
fact if information does not run recklessly away,
the whole career of Superintendent Lang as an
officer was canvassed. His removal also came
in for serious consideration as the only way out
of the vexatious situation and Colonel Downing
it is understood, took decided stand for the
while not regarding Lang as the beau ideal Of
superintendent, paid fine compliment to his
moral character and integrity. 1t is reported
that Mr. Murphy said: Lang is not to be pur
chased. This, with other traits makes him in
some degree an acceptable superintendent; but
there are others, l think, which prevent him
from being altogether serviceabe. give him
credit of having at all times the best intentions
but perhaps the most striking fault is his inabil-
ity to adapt himself to circumstances He has
al lin
swerves from it. Some people would call this
a lack of Judgment" How Colonel Downing re-
garded the superintendent faults and virtues is
not clear. unless it can be inferred from his wish
to have him instantly removed
This proposition of Colonel Downing suggested
to the other commissioners whether he could be
removed without a public hearing. Upon this
the conversation became lengthy, resulting in no
action on the Downing resolution to remove MIN
at once and to elect a successor. It is suggested
that Lang's probable action in asserting his
rights under the law and the rules of the board,
iii became necessary, had something to do with
putting aside the Downing motion. Lang has
said II do not intent to resign, and what course
I will take if they remove me l hardly know
When the time comes l will make up my mind"
MIR. Murphy was seen last evening by
a Journal reporter. He said "The situation
after the meeting to-day remains without
change The question of SUPPLEMENTARY is left
unsolved, for the new board to taks up. and who
will compose that we will know tomorrow
have not seen State officer for some time ex-
cept Mr.. Cooper. I have not been solicitous for
retention on the board. Indeed, feel that
have had enough of 1t, and during all the dis
cussion as to who would be and who would not
be appointed l have not given the slightest sug
gestion to any of the gentlemen at the State
house. have not been at the
building during the past several
weeks. AS far as I am concerned, the State off
GERS can follow their own Judgment and wishes
in the matter. do not desire reappointment,
as believe I have sacrificed enough of my per-
sonal interests and comfort in doing what have
done to aid in making the force efficient and non.
partisan"
At the State-house yesterday there was no new
Developments, but it is likely the appointment of
a new Commissioner will be made to- day.