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

Gonzaga University and the Spokane Police Department hosted a weeklong Dialogue Policing training event, finishing on October 15, 2025. This comprehensive 40-hour program, developed by the Columbus Police Department, aims to enhance law enforcement's communication skills during large gatherings. Officers engaged in discussions with activists and media, focusing on community perspectives alongside de-escalation techniques and crowd psychology. The training emphasized the importance of collaboration and understanding between police and the communities they serve. Participants took part in practical scenarios to solidify their communication skills before completing certification requirements.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve police-community relations in Spokane. The event attracted multiple agencies from the Spokane area, highlighting regional collaboration in law enforcement training. Ultimately, this training program seeks to foster a more effective and empathetic approach to policing.