Day in and day out we trust our civil service personnel to protect us.

Firemen and police officers are paid to protect and serve. We respect their authority to do so.

When the tables are turned, though, and it’s the officer facing charges, the world simply isn’t right.

Five former and current Ferriday Police Department officers were indicted this week, some on charges that are simply shocking.

Simple battery, aggravated assault and carnal knowledge of a juvenile are charges officers responsible for protecting the public shouldn’t be facing.

But the officers charged are innocent until proven guilty, just like the rest of us.

If the charges lead to convictions, FPD must quickly work to restore trust among the city, the community and the state.

Mayor-elect Glen McGlothin must give immediate attention to the department, and in turn the community needs to offer up a clean slate.

Until we know for sure though, it’s best to let the legal system handle matters.

All officers deserve our respect for the work they do to protect us all, and we have no choice but to wait before casting judgment on the men and woman involved.