LaGrange, Ga. June 13, 2018 – The Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs delegation from Tbilisi, Georgia who visited LaGrange in May is modeling its community policing program on the LaGrange Police Department.
The group learned about the LaGrange Police Department’s community policing practices during their week-long visit.
International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, or INL, Senior Police Advisor Mike Turner works with the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi, Georgia. He says the delegation was both impressed and amazed at the scope and success of the LPD community policing program.
“The mission of the Embassy’s police assistance program is to continue the modernization and professionalization of Georgia’s criminal justice community,” Turner said.
“Without dedicated professionals like the LaGrange Police Department the INL could not hope to accomplish its mission.”
The group consisted of decision makers from the Georgian Ministry of Internal Affairs who are involved in planning and implementing community oriented policing initiatives in the Republic of Georgia.
LaGrange Police Chief Lou Dekmar, who serves as the President of the International Association of Chiefs of Police, hosted the group. LPD continues to receive overwhelmingly positive reviews for their efforts on community police relationships.
The site visit included classroom instruction and riding with officers in Patrol to observe their community policing efforts in action. The participants had the opportunity to meet with citizens, civic groups, and business leaders with whom the LaGrange Police Department has partnered with in their Community Outreach Initiatives.
The delegation met with Mayor Jim Thornton and City Manager Meg Kelsey
“It was our pleasure to host the delegation from the Republic of Georgia,” said LPD Chief Lou Dekmar.
“We are delighted they found the experience educational and valuable.”
Media Contact: Lt. Eric Lohr, LaGrange Police Department, (706) 883-2684 or [email protected]
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