Mayor Kasim Reed and GE today announced a $1 million partnership to support the city in developing enhanced public safety strategies, specifically focused on leadership development and culture training for the Atlanta Police Department.
The APD has already begun to implement its “Blueprint for Public Safety,” a policing plan based on the recommendations of the White House’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing.
In support of the plan’s implementation, APD and GE will focus on enhanced training methods for officers, including the use of digital tools, improving data collection and analytics and leadership development and culture change practices. Officers will attend training classes at the GE Management Development Institute in Crotonville, NY.
“Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward in strengthening our community policing efforts,” Reed said at a morning press conference. “Our officers need enhanced training and capabilities to build community trust and improve as a police force. GE is one of the world’s leading companies, and when I asked for support, they responded without hesitation. I cannot thank our partners at GE enough for joining us in this essential partnership.”
“The Atlanta Police Department is honored to work with GE on this important leadership initiative,” said APD Chief George N. Turner. “Since being selected as one of 15 police agencies from across the nation to implement President Barack Obama’s 21st Century Policing recommendations, we are already committed to developing best-in-class policing methods in order to build trust and nurture relationships with the citizens of Atlanta. I am confident that this partnership will be a vital component to APD’s overall policing strategy.”