A new initiative by the Gwinnett County Police Department could help ease tensions between the community and police officers.
The police department has formed the Community Affairs Section, which will be under the command of Major Michelle Anglin. Police spokesman Collin Flynn says the initiative will expand upon the department’s long-standing commitment to fostering relationships between the police and the community.
This newly formed section will offer the community more opportunities to actively engage with the members of the police department. Flynn said the Community Affairs Section will assist in enhancing the community’s understanding of the role and function of our department, as it applies to identifying the needs and concerns of the community.
The department’s existing Crime Prevention Unit has been transferred to the Community Affairs Section and will continue to promote, through education and active support, citizens’ participation in the reduction and prevention of crime. It will also provide educational and safety-related programs to the community.
Anglin was specially selected for the lead role in this unit because of her long history of leadership and her ability to build genuine relationships. Anglin said she believes in leadership through mentorship and inclusion.
She began her career with the police department in 2003 and has played a critical role in the department through her years working in investigations, crime analysis, and community relations positions. She has been awarded numerous commendations over her years of service, including being named Officer of the Month twice and receiving the Chief’s Unit Citation four times.
