Central Falls Police Department wins international award for community policing
CENTRAL FALLS, RI (October 18, 2023) – The Central Falls Police Department (CFPD) was just named the 2023 recipient of the Leadership in Community Policing Award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) – a prestigious award that recognizes outstanding community policing initiatives by law enforcement agencies worldwide.
“No single factor has been more critical to lessening crime levels than the partnerships we share throughout the city and state in an effort to better serve our community,” said Police Chief Anthony Roberson. “The Central Falls Police Department is honored to have been selected and I applaud the hard work of the men and women of the agency and highlight this as a great accomplishment for the City of Central Falls.”
This week, Mayor Maria Rivera and CFPD leadership traveled to the IACP Annual Conference in San Diego, CA to be honored – an event where more than 16,000 public safety professionals come to learn new techniques, advance their knowledge and careers, and equip their department for ongoing success.
"It was a privilege to travel across the country with our Police Department to receive one of the highest international industry awards for their leadership in community policing. CFPD continues to demonstrate outstanding efforts to build trust and positive relationships with our youth and residents in every neighborhood, which has led to safer streets, reduced crime, and an engaged community,” said Mayor Maria Rivera. “From our entire department being the first in the state to be fully trained in nonviolence practices to unique programs like our nationally recognized Leading Ladies Initiative that strengthens community trust and collaboration, this recognition is well-earned. I hope their efforts to engage our youth, provide mentorship, and build goodwill in our city inspire other departments across the country to find new ways to positively work with their communities.”
Specifically winning the "Leadership in Community Policing" category, CFPD was honored for its unique, nationally-recognized Leading Ladies Initiative that advances the lACP Trust Building Campaign by strengthening community trust through inclusive community collaboration, mentoring teenage girls to prepare them for higher education, job interviews, and employment opportunities. Participants are mentored by women serving in various roles that include executive directors, police commanders, elected officials, and prominent business leaders. To aid with higher education, participants receive a $2,000 scholarship. The two-day program helps community members engage youth, allowing them to develop a support mechanism of mentors for long-term success. To date, nearly all graduates remain connected to the program of over 50 mentors.
IACP is the world’s largest and most influential professional association for police leaders. With more than 33,000 members in over 170 countries, the IACP is a recognized leader in global policing, committed to advancing safer communities through thoughtful, progressive police leadership. The IACP is known for its commitment to enhancing community safety by shaping the future of the police profession. Through timely research, programming, and unparalleled training opportunities, the IACP is preparing current and emerging police leaders—and the agencies and communities they serve—to succeed in addressing the most pressing issues, threats, and challenges of the day.
