New Position Part of City’s Efforts to Advance Long-term Community Policing Strategies
January 28, 2021
PROVIDENCE, RI– Mayor Jorge O. Elorza today announced the creation of a Community Relations and Diversion Services Major position within the Providence Police Department. The position will be the fifth Major added to the Providence Police Department Command Staff.
“The addition of a Community Relations and Diversion Services Major will uplift the voices of our community to the highest levels of leadership within the Providence Police Department,” said Mayor Jorge. O Elorza. “Over twenty years ago, the Providence Police Department was on the forefront of building relationships with the communities they serve and this new leadership role will continue to build upon and expand that work.”
The Community Relations and Diversion Services Major will report directly to the Chief of Police and will supervise the Training Bureau and Training Academy as well as the promotional process and testing acquisition for the supervisory ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain. They will also be responsible for the recruitment, selection, retention, training of all future recruits.
”The creation of this position will allow our department to have a new, heightened approach and focus related to our ongoing commitment to serving the community,” said Colonel Hugh Clements. “The implementation of this position will further enhance our working relationships with community leaders, and others to sustain our mutually beneficial relationship going forward.”
In addition, the new Major will administer the development and execution of interventions designed to reduce responses to calls that are more appropriate for specialized services like mental health and other counseling supports. The position shall be responsible for building and strengthening trust and respect within the community.
The Community Relations and Diversion Services Major will be incorporated in the revised, proposed FY2021 budget. The position will be posted publicly and interested applicants will be encouraged to apply. The hiring process will include a panel of public safety staff and Providence community members focused on community and diversion service partnerships.