For decades law enforcement has moved ever closer to a policy of Community oriented policing, but what exactly does that mean? It’s a philosophy that law enforcement’s effectiveness depends on more than simply making arrests. It’s engaging with the community on a level that promotes trust and wellbeing for everyone. To Terry Allbritton, it’s a road map to a department focused on continued improvement, and a stronger, safer community for us all. What does community policing look like to Terry?
Hiring Standards:
It begins with the quality of candidates for new deputies. Terry will not compromise the quality of a new deputy to satisfy an opening in positions. Maintaining the highest hiring standards is critical to the foundational professionalism of any department.
Training and Professional Development:
Investing in ongoing training is the next step in ensuring Precinct 5 is fielding the best deputies possible. Training in areas such as de-escalation, cultural diversity, use of force and crisis intervention are just a few of the critical requirements that ensure deputies are equipped to handle diverse situations with competence, professionalism, and empathy. Precinct 5 has routinely conducted training that far exceeds state requirements and Terry intends to keep it that way.
Technology and Data Analysis:
Leveraging the latest technologies and data analysis Terry is focused on enhancing a deputy’s effectiveness, identifying and predicting criminal trends, reducing response times, and aiding in resource allocation in order to effectively fight crime.
Transparency and Accountability:
Before any community policing practices can be effective, transparency and accountability must be a priority. Terry is committed to accomplishing this by communicating openly with the community about policies, procedures, and incidents. He is committed to establishing and maintaining accountability to ensure fair and just policing practices for everyone.
Proactive Crime Prevention:
Terry understands that a proactive law enforcement response is much better than a reactive response. Crime prevention initiatives focus on addressing the root cause of criminal activity. This includes targeted initiatives focused on reducing crime, working closely with at risk populations to identify problems and needs, and providing resources and education that address them.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives:
These initiatives are achieved by promoting diversity within the department as well as implementing policies that ensure fair and unbiased treatment for all residents, regardless of their background. Terry is committed to continuing an inclusive environment that reflects the diversity of the community.
Community Collaboration:
Terry is intent on building partnerships with local community organizations, nonprofits, and social services to address the broader social issues that contribute to crime. Bringing these assets together and working collaboratively will help ensure that resources and support reach those in need.
Victims Assistance Program:
The Precinct 5 Victim Assistance Unit was started in 2016. Enhancing services for victims of crime, including counseling, legal assistance, and other support mechanisms has been their mission ever since. Terry will continue to prioritize the well-being and recovery of those affected by criminal incidents through this vital service.
Community Outreach:
Fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and the diverse communities within Precinct 5 is something Terry Allbritton strongly believes in. Precinct 5’s Community Relations division is currently under Terry’s command where he, not only oversees its efforts, but often directly assists.
Youth Programs:
Understanding that law enforcement’s relationship with the community of tomorrow, rests with the youth of today, Terry is committed to a robust Youth program. Engaging with local schools and youth organizations, developing programs that foster positive relationships between law enforcement and young people, and providing educational resources and mentorship opportunities all help to steer our children and teens away from criminal activities.
Some of the current youth programs include:
Teen Police Academy
Department Internship
Life Lessons 101
Driving Safety Program
Internet Dangers Awareness
Beginner Bicycle Training
Stranger Danger
Two additional programs that are in the developmental phase.
Explorer Program
Mentoring Program
Emergency Preparedness:
If Hurricane Harvey taught Harris County anything, it’s that one can never be too prepared. Collaborating with other public safety agencies and community organizations to develop and implement comprehensive emergency preparedness plans remains a priority for Terry.