Danville Public Safety Director Larry Thomason says a lot has changed for police officers since he joined the force more than 30 years ago. He also said on WDAN Radio’s Newsmakers program that today’s officers need to know how to use their professional training.
‘’What I’m watching today is officers have to be able to answer the call…be able to assess what is taking place…be able to give reasonable answers to the individuals, and hopefully de-escalate a situation…and fortunately – if they can – walk away without making an arrest, but hoping that what they’ve had to say to the person has changed their lifestyle and sent them in the right direction,’’ said Thomason.
Director Thomason discussed his years on the police force, and also noted that applications are still being accepted for the next test for probationary officers. The Danville Board of Police and Fire Commissioners recently extended that deadline to August 31st.
And as discussion on the program turned to some recent violence in Danville, Thomason noted Danville is not alone. He also noted the violence has not been random incidents.
‘’So many of the acts of violence are targeted situations. They are not random situations. And that is key to what is occurring,’’ said Thomason. ‘’And then we have to look at who’s involved in those targeting situations and we develop from that.’’
Director Thomason says the oaths taken by Danville Police mean a lot to them. ‘’I have a great team of young dedicated police officers in this community. They are here for this community, and I’m so proud of every one of them because they show it every day how they act,’’ added Thomason.
