Full Breakdown
Green Bay Police Chief Defends Recruit with Controversial Tattoo
1/8/2026, 10:27:53 PM
Background on the Controversy
The Green Bay Police Department has faced scrutiny following the revelation that one of its new recruits, Ross Walden, has a tattoo associated with the Three Percenters, a movement often linked to anti-government sentiments and extremist ideologies. The tattoo, featuring the Roman numeral III surrounded by 13 stars, was visible in a photo posted on the department's Facebook page, which quickly attracted public attention and criticism.
Police Chief's Defense
Green Bay Police Chief Chris Davis issued a statement asserting that Walden's tattoo was intended to symbolize "resistance to tyranny" rather than an affiliation with extremist groups. Davis emphasized that Walden underwent a comprehensive background check, which included a psychological evaluation and reference checks with 22 individuals. According to Davis, none of these evaluations raised concerns regarding bias or extremism. He stated, “Nothing in (Walden’s) background investigation raised concerns regarding bias, extremism, or conduct inconsistent with the values of the Green Bay Police Department.”
The Three Percenters Movement
The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) categorizes the Three Percenters as a "vanguard extremist movement," noting that it emerged shortly after the election of Barack Obama in 2008. SPLC Research Analyst Calum Farley explained that while not all individuals with the tattoo are affiliated with extremist groups, the symbol reflects a worldview steeped in conspiratorial beliefs about government overreach. Farley highlighted that individuals associated with the movement have previously engaged in violent plots, including attempts to bomb a Somali refugee settlement and kidnap Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
Chief Davis's Commitment to Transparency
In response to the public's concerns, Chief Davis reiterated the department's commitment to an unbiased hiring process and transparency. He stated, “We set pretty high expectations for how we interact with the public, and we place a high value in the Green Bay Police Department on treating the public with respect.” Davis welcomed public inquiries about the tattoo, emphasizing the importance of community trust in law enforcement.
Criticism and Community Concerns
Despite the department's assurances, the presence of the tattoo has raised alarms among community members who associate it with far-right extremism and white supremacist beliefs. Critics argue that such symbols can undermine public trust in law enforcement, particularly in a diverse community. The Anti-Defamation League also classifies the Three Percenters as part of the militia movement, further complicating the narrative surrounding Walden's tattoo.
Conclusion
The Green Bay Police Department continues to stand by its decision to hire Ross Walden, asserting that his tattoo does not reflect extremist views. Chief Davis remains open to dialogue with the community, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in policing. As the situation unfolds, the department's approach to hiring and community engagement will be closely monitored by both supporters and critics alike.
