City Re-Launches Partnership with Worcester Police and Local Clergy
Thursday, June 18, 2015
The group's first order of business will be to develop a report that focuses on strategic actions to deter youth violence. The report will be unveiled on June 24 at a press conference at City Hall.
The partnership will be made up of members of WPD's command staff, a police liasion officer, and various members of clergy representing multiple faiths and religious traditions.
"Our alliance with local clergy is an opportunity for the police department to continue to build relationships with members of the diverse Worcester community," said Worcester Police Chief Gary Gemme. "We look forward to a collaborative partnership that seeks to develop solutions to the challenges we face as a community. I appreciate the efforts of all who are involved in reenergizing this long standing relationship."
Mayor Joe Petty said, "Tackling youth violence is a priority for both the City Manager and me. The only solution is one that engages the community and works cooperatively with the Worcester Police Department. The leaders of our faith-based organizations are key to implementing any effective strategy to address this issue."
The executive committe will include Rev. Jose Encarnacion of Christian Community Church, Rev. Esau Vance of Mt. Olive Pentacostal Church, and Rev. Aaron Payson of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Worcester Rev. Encarnacion, Rev. Vance and WPD Deputy Chief Ed McGinn will act as co-chairs of the partnership. The alliance will be open to professional religious leaders in the city who agree to attend the Worcester Police Department's Clergy/Civilian Police Academy.
"This partnership will be a key tool for the police department to build relationships with a diverse set of communities throughout our city," City Manager Ed Augustus said. "I applaud Chief Gemme and the clergy for stepping up to the plate and reinstating this vital collaboration."
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