The Washtenaw Economic Club held a virtual meeting on Tuesday on police reform and strengthening community and police relations in the county.
State and local leaders discussed issues such as mitigating the use of excessive police force, improving police training, and building trust with residents in Washtenaw County. Jerrod Hart is the Chief of Police for the City of Saline and took part in the discussion. He says his department is currently trying to improve its communication with the public.
Chief Jerrod Hart: What we see as highly visible patrol and a deterrence could be seen as predatory practices by some members of the community. And we have to be aware of that, and share that, and share from our perspective what our goal is.
Ann Arbor Police Chief Michael Cox says his department is reviewing old complaints filed against police officers to determine how they can make improvements to their operation. Meanwhile, 18th District State Senator Jeff Irwin said the state needs to make sure police officers are receiving up-to-date training on how to interact with members of the public.
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— Jorge Avellan is a reporter for 89.1 WEMU News. Contact him at 734.487.3363 or email him javellan@emich.edu
