Local law enforcement continue their dialogue with area minority groups to better understand the communities in which they serve. Monday night at Columbus City Hall, the African American Pastors Alliance met with members of the Columbus Police Department, Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department, local officials and residents to address the the relationships between police and minority groups.
Columbus Police Chief Jon Rohde says these events are worthwhile…
Sheriff Matt Myers says these outreach efforts are important, especially with the recent unrest between police and minority groups across the country. He adds that all Sheriff’s Department employees take part in training offered by the Indiana State Police as it relates to interacting with members of minority communities…
Sheriff Myers went on to say that while this area hasn’t had to deal with issues affecting other parts of the country, it is important for local law enforcement to “stay in front of the issue” and keep open lines of communication to make sure they don’t occur here.
The African American Pastors Alliance began this program in September. Organizers say they plan on holding these sessions every three months, or so.