POUGHKEEPSIE – The City of Poughkeepsie’s criminal justice reform report not only meets, but exceeds the tenets contained in the governor’s mandate for reimaging all police agencies in the state by April 1, Mayor Rob Rolison said.
Specifically, he cited the police department’s training in progressive policing and strategies and techniques.
Over the years, the city department has undertaken an array of training, including in procedural justice, which focuses on the way police interact with the public. The agency has also undertaken implicit bias training, which addresses the stereotypes people tend to have about groups of people.
Police Chief Tom Pape said the department will continue to get updated training and intends to bolster other initiatives, such as its recent collaboration with Mental Health America of Dutchess County to address mental health crises and provide access to professional services and programs.
The report also reinforces the city’s commitment to increase diversity in the police ranks and to work with Dutchess Community College and the Poughkeepsie City School District to design a “Pathways to Policing” program.
The report will now go before a public hearing before gaining common council approval and being submitted to the state.
NEWS STORY PROVIDED BY: Mid Hudson News -www.midhudsonnews.com