[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 98 (Tuesday, June 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E606]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING FORMER IMPD POLICE CHIEF, JAMES TOLER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. ANDRE CARSON

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 11, 2024

  Mr. CARSON. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of former Indianapolis 
Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Chief James Toler who lived a 
life of selfless and profound service to the Indianapolis community. 
Chief Toler passed away on June 4, 2024, at the age of 82.
  James Toler has been described as a trailblazer. He came from humble 
beginnings and worked long nights climbing up the ranks from sergeant 
to major before he was appointed Indianapolis' first Black police 
chief. Chief Toler understood the magnitude of his service, sharing he 
``felt a tremendous responsibility to do very well in the position so 
that if the opportunity comes for the selection of another minority, 
they would never be able to look at me and look at me as a failure.''
  During his tenure, Chief Toler implemented community policing within 
IMPD, improving connections between police and Indianapolis residents. 
This model was relatively unknown at the time but is now utilized 
nationwide. He also played a key role in helping IMPD's administration 
become more efficient. Chief Toler retired from IMPD in 2001 following 
38 years of service.
  Chief Toler will always be remembered by not only his biological 
family and loving friends, but also through his special relationship 
with the entire Indianapolis community. We treasure the legacy he 
leaves. James' blood, sweat, and tears paved the way for so many, and 
he will continue to serve as an inspiration to all who want to make a 
difference in the world.
  Today, I ask my colleagues to join me honoring a true Hoosier public 
servant. Our thoughts are with his family during this time.

                          ____________________