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

Gonzaga University partnered with the Spokane Police Department to conduct a weeklong Dialogue Policing training event focused on enhancing communication between law enforcement and the community. Developed by the Columbus Police Department, the comprehensive 40-hour course equips officers with skills for effective interactions, particularly during large gatherings. The training included a session that allowed officers to hear perspectives from local activists and engage in a Q&A with media representatives, promoting transparency. Emphasis was placed on de-escalation techniques and understanding crowd psychology, critical for maintaining public safety. Officers participated in realistic training scenarios to solidify their learning and prepare for certification.

Multiple agencies from the Spokane area attended, highlighting the collaborative effort to improve community relations. This initiative aims to foster better understanding and trust between police and community members. As communities call for improved policing practices, programs like this are essential for building a more responsive law enforcement framework.