SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – October’s arrest of a Springfield police lieutenant accused of driving under the influence highlights the need for better mental health support for city employees, according to those who spoke during Wednesday’s city council public comment period.

Another problem the public commenters identified: not enough of them got a chance to speak. The meeting disintegrated into shouts and accusations as Mayor Misty Buscher adjourned it. Clerk Chuck Redpath told the mayor that the people still seeking a chance to speak had not signed up in advance.

The main subject was Lt. Charles Peters’ DUI arrest in October. Combined with the July 4 arrest of a sergeant, commenters said it reinforces a culture of leniency and the toll police work takes on one’s mental health. They drew a contrast between what they see as an unmet need with a budget that includes new police cars, riot shields, a remodeled gymnasium, and a military-style vehicle.

“I know for a fact that when you get a DUI, it’s not your first time behind the wheel drunk,” said citizen Ken Pacha. “It’s just the first time we caught you.”

“There is an erosion of public trust of SPD,” said Reggie Guyton, denying that he and other critics are trying to “demonize” police. “On the contrary. What I am trying to prevent is what we are seeing across the country,” citing as a recent example the death of a one-year-old in Mississippi. An officer shot at a car carrying suspected shoplifters in a Walmart parking lot.