The Overland Park Police Department is pleased to announce the completion of a pledge to enhance trust, accountability and collaboration between police and the community it protects and serves.
Developed by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the pledge is part of the Trust Building Campaign initiative. To join the Trust Building Campaign, law enforcement agencies must pledge to implement 25 key policies and practices within a 36-month period. The Overland Park Police Department earned its certification in August 2023.
“I am proud that my department is committed to enhancing the trust with the community we serve,” said Chief Donchez. “We value our community-police partnerships and strive to improve the well-being and quality of life for all.”
By completing the Trust Building Campaign Pledge, the Overland Park Police presented their established policies and trainings, conducted assessments and developed strategies within six focus areas:
- Bias-free policing,
- Use of force,
- Leadership and culture,
- Recruitment and retention,
- Victim services,
- And community relations.
These policies are designed to encourage positive community-police partnerships that promote safe, effective interactions and create strategies to prevent and reduce crime.
The IACP is encouraged by agencies’ efforts as they incorporate the pledge’s concepts into everyday operations. When trust building is prioritized, community members and police benefit from relationships focused on unified visions, goals and values.
Find more information about the Trust Building Campaign on the IACP’s website.