The Takoma Park Police Department has been accepted into a program to train officers in strategies and tactics to help law enforcement officers prevent misconduct and reduce officer mistakes, among other goals, officials announced yesterday.
The Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement Project, an initiative of Georgetown University’s Law Center, includes more than 60 other law enforcement agencies, along with statewide and regional training academies chosen to participate in the ABLE Project’s national rollout.
“ABLE gives officers the tools they need to overcome the innate and powerful inhibitors all individuals face when called upon to intervene in actions taken by their peers,” according to the announcement.
“We are very excited to have our staff participate in the ABLE training,“ said Chief Antonio DeVaul. “We always seek out training that will increase trust and transparency within our community.”
Georgetown Law’s Innovative Policing Program, in collaboration with global law firm Sheppard Mullin LLP, developed the program, which includes evidence-based and field-tested strategies. It is available to selected agencies at no cost.
“As we work to reimagine public safety and seek to rectify injustices in our institutions, we must also ensure individuals have the ability and skills to take action against bias and violence,” said Mayor Kate Stewart in the release. “Our participation in the ABLE Project is an important step to ensure accountability and continue the culture change in our police department needed to serve every member of our community.”
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