HAMDEN, Conn. — Members of the Police Department received specialized training in anti-racial profiling and anti-bias-based policing from the Community Relations Service of the Department of Justice in September, Police Chief Thomas J. Wydra said recently.
This training was provided in eight-hour program blocks over three days and was conducted in the training center at the new police facility.
This is the most recent training in human relationship subjects the Community Relations Service has provided the department. In 2011, department personnel received training and instruction in the area of cultural awareness.
"The CRS staff was incredibly talented, professional and effective in coordinating the delivery of these programs," Wydra said in a press release.
"Hamden is a melting pot of citizens from various cultures, religions and races.
"These training programs will provide the foundation and tools for our police officers to be more culturally and racially competent in the execution of their duties.
"An additional benefit realized from the completion of these programs is the enhancement of the standing and legitimacy of the Hamden Police Department in our communities," the statement said.