Atlanta Starts Approving Treatments for Disabled Officers After IBPO Intervention
It appears that the city of Atlanta has finally begun approving vital medical treatments for several disabled police officers following the IBPO’s aggressive campaign on their behalf.
Retired detective Bob Buffington, who was shot in a drug raid over 30 years ago, has undergone a procedure that allows him to walk with the aid of a cane. Buffington had spent years confined to a wheelchair as his condition deteriorated. He and four other officers, badly disabled in the line of duty, told the IBPO earlier this year that the city's workers compensation administrators had been delaying authorization for necessary medical treatments. The IBPO drew attention to their plight with a video and media campaign, resulting in a public outcry against the city's actions.
"We are all very happy to hear that Detective Buffington is now getting the treatment he needs and deserves,"said David J. Holway, IBPO national president. "I hope that this is just the beginning of better days for him and the other officers who have sacrificed so much."
President Holway also praised IBPO Local 623 President Scott Kreher for his outstanding work on behalf of the disabled officers. "Brother Kreher championed their cause with his whole heart and soul. His leadership is an inspiration," said President Holway.
Reporter Morse Diggs from WAGA Fox 5 News shows us Buffington’s progress: