Kirkland Police Officers Are ABLE-Trained to Intervene
The Kirkland Police Department (KPD) has proudly announced that all its officers have successfully completed the Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement (ABLE) training, a program designed to foster peer support and intervention. Developed by Georgetown Law’s Center for Innovations in Community Safety, the ABLE initiative aims to reduce mistakes, prevent misconduct, and promote officer health and wellness. By committing to this training, KPD reinforces its dedication to accountability and its core values of honor, integrity, and courage. Officers will continue to participate in annual refresher courses to keep these principles at the forefront of their duties. Police Chief Cherie Harris emphasized that the ABLE program encourages officers to support one another during critical moments, ultimately enhancing police accountability.
The program is provided at no cost to law enforcement agencies, who must create a culture of active bystandership through policy and training. This initiative showcases KPD's commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in public safety. Residents can take pride in knowing their police department is at the forefront of implementing strategies that protect and serve the community effectively.