Sioux Falls Police to Return Gift Cards over Ethics Concerns

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Sioux Falls police are returning about 300 gift cards donated by area churches over ethics concerns.

The gift cards flowed in as a show of support for law enforcement after five Dallas police officers were killed and seven others wounded last month in a shooting during a protest over recent killings by police of black men in Louisiana and Minnesota.

The Argus Leader reports Sioux Falls' city ethics board this week recommended the gift cards be returned, due to city ordinance that blocks city workers from accepting most gifts. Board Vice Chairman Jack Marsh said that police accepting the cards could open the door to gifts from groups with agendas.

Police Chief Galen Smidt said the gift cards will be returned, though he added, "we certainly appreciate the gesture."

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

See Also: