Central Falls Police Dept. becomes first PD in Rhode Island with all officers completing Nonviolence Training
CENTRAL FALLS, RI (August 13. 2021) – Today, the Central Falls Police Department was recognized by The Nonviolence Institute for becoming the first police department in Rhode Island to have every officer complete a 40+ hour Nonviolence Training Program.
“Now having our entire police department trained thoroughly with nonviolence practices is just one more important tool we’ve added to keep our city safer. This achievement comes at the heels of our city rolling out additional non-violence initiatives, like a new Central Falls Nonviolence Outreach specialist and new programs, including a summer nonviolence youth program, to keep our youth safe and engaged,” said Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera. “I want to thank The Nonviolence Institute for their commitment to teaching the principles and practices of nonviolence, and helping communities like ours become more empowered through nonviolence solutions. I also want to thank the Rhode Island Foundation for the grant that funded this important training.”
The Institute’s 40+ hour Nonviolence Training Program includes reflection, teaching, and practice program components, from strategies for identifying and de-escalating conflict to leading and mobilizing nonviolent direct action.
“The Nonviolence Institute is committed to providing nonviolence training to our community and partners,” said Cedric Huntley, executive director of The Nonviolence Institute. “We are pleased Mayor Rivera and the Central Falls Police Department recognize the value in connecting and building a beloved community through the shared language and practices of Nonviolence philosophy and steps. More importantly, the important work that is critical to bridging levels of trust between law enforcement and the communities throughout Rhode Island.”
Each of Central Falls Police Department’s 39 officers – including all officers and command staff – participated in the training program. The training began in the spring and was completed this summer, with groups of officers rotating through the training program on a weekly basis.
“Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed first-hand how important nonviolence approaches – paired with community policing efforts and positive youth engagement efforts– leads to stronger, safer communities. This Nonviolence Training has given our entire department new, helpful strategies and tools to keep our city safer,” said Central Falls Police Colonel Anthony Roberson. “I want to thank the Nonviolence Institute and all the trainers and facilitators who provided such an impactful training program for our department. I’m proud Central Falls is now the first police department in our state with every officer having completed this training. I’m confident we won’t be the last. This experience was invaluable and I highly recommend it to our other police colleagues across the state.”
“While at the police training, I was struck with their openness and knowledge,” said Fr. Raymond Malm, a founder of the nonviolence program. “The police are so important in the nonviolence mission. You should be proud of all of them. I know I am.”
