Loeffler Supports Funding for Georgia Police Chiefs’ Community Trust Initiative

Asks DOJ to Consider Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police Application for Federal Grant

ATLANTA – U.S. Senator Kelly Loeffler (R-Ga.) has asked the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to consider an application by the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police for grant funding for its “Community Trust Initiative,” which began last year in an effort to build trust between police departments and the communities they serve.
 
The Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police is seeking a grant through the 2020 Community Policing Development program, administered by the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services at DOJ.
 
“Now more than ever, our focus must be on solutions that enhance the trust and respect between our law enforcement and the communities they serve, which is why I’ve asked the Department of Justice to consider an application by the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police for federal funding for its Community Trust Initiative,” said Senator Loeffler. “This grant is critical to reinforcing a positive relationship between Georgians and law enforcement, who risk their lives every day to keep others safe. During these challenging times, we must rally behind law enforcement and provide them with the respect and resources they need to do their job effectively, and this funding is a positive step in that direction.”
 
“The foundation of effective policing is built upon public trust and confidence in the police,” said LaGrange Police Chief Lou Dekmar, former President of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and a founder of the Community Trust Initiative. “This initiative is an opportunity to make that vision a reality in minority communities that have historically distrusted the police because of historical wrongs that still affect and impact police behavior and relationships today in Georgia and across our nation.”
 
The full letter is available here.