Spokane Police Department and Gonzaga University co-host weeklong Dialogue Policing training

Spokane Police Department and Gonzaga University co-hosted a comprehensive weeklong Dialogue Policing training aimed at enhancing communication skills for law enforcement. Developed by the Columbus Police Department, the 40-hour course equips officers to interact effectively with community members during large-scale events. Participants engage with community activists and media representatives during a Q&A session, fostering mutual understanding. Training emphasizes de-escalation techniques and the psychological aspects of crowd behavior. Officers also take part in practical scenarios to apply their learning and ensure mastery of the material.

This initiative reflects a broader commitment to improving police-community relations in Spokane. Multiple local agencies attended, demonstrating regional support for the program. Ultimately, the training seeks to cultivate a collaborative environment between law enforcement and the public.