Where We Were. Where We're Are. Where We're Going.

Starting at the foundation, the actions set forth by the City of Warren help create a more transparent and healthier relationship between the police department and the citizens it serves. According to data from Campbell Systematic Reviews, police programs that help promote community connection aid in reducing violent extremist behavior, attitudes, and beliefs. In the past, the City of Warren has made efforts to rebuild the trust between law enforcement and residents, including implementing new use of force protocols and policies, building systems to ensure that uses of force are evaluated and documented, and building systems tracking citizen complaints and ensuring they are promptly investigated. Warren officers have also received training on conducting effective and constitutional policing. 

Photo Caption: All personnel commissioned by the Warren Police Department must complete forty hours of annual in-service training.

Officers for the City of Warren must also complete Continued Professional Training as required by the State of Ohio. (Source)

For too long, the public perception of law enforcement is one of seeing them as separate from the community. In a study conducted by the Pew Research Center, 62 percent of officers say their role is to serve as protectors and enforcers, whereas only 53 percent of the public would share this perspective. This can create a climate of tension and mistrust. To combat this, the City of Warren recognizes the importance of engaging with members of the community and appealing to their concerns. It’s why we have programs like our Citizens Police Awareness Academy, which helps residents gain a better understanding of how our police department operates. Programs such as these help ensure that both officers and residents have a mutual understanding of expectations now and for the future.



Why This Matters

Within the City of Warren, we believe a strong, well-trained police force is key to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents, regardless of race, gender, or social standing. Warren police officers are protectors of the community, and their ability to effectively respond to diverse situations with professionalism, integrity, empathy, and respect is vital to nourishing the relationship between law enforcement and our citizens. 

At their core, relationships demand security and trust. Establishing these factors does not occur overnight; it requires effort, communication, and action. Recognizing the need for stronger relationships and open dialogue, Mayor Doug Franklin launched the Police and Community Trust Initiative (PCTI) on April 15, 2021. Bringing together a diverse group of leaders from government, nonprofits, law enforcement, legal, business, and civil organizations, the group has dedicated their time sharing insights and experiences to ensure the success of this initiative. 

With a commitment to transparency and engagement, the objective of this campaign is to rebuild trust and strengthen the relationship between law enforcement and the citizens of Warren, Ohio. Recognizing the deep-rooted concerns within segments of the community, this campaign also acknowledges challenges law enforcement experiences, particularly the negative public perceptions that can arise. This initiative will foster understanding, bridge divides, and create a foundation of lasting trust through transparent communication, authentic storytelling, and meaningful community engagement. The effects of this campaign will be long-term within the City of Warren, ensuring a brighter future for Warren residents and their families. 

Establishing Trust: Maintaining Transparency with the Community

The heart of our actions is more than just improving upon skills–it’s about building a strong connection between our officers and the residents of our city. One of the key components of this program is de-escalation and conflict resolution. Police officers are often tasked with diffusing tense situations while peacefully managing conflicts. This is vital for a city. 

Photo Caption: The Warren Police Department takes all complaints against the department seriously. Investigations occur for each complaint by our Internal Affairs Division.

Complaints made against the Department continue to trend downward year-over-year. (Source)

Through training officers in these areas, the City of Warren has equipped law enforcement with tools that aid in reducing the odds of violent confrontations. This ensures the community stays safe: that students feel safe at a Raiders game, that residents feel safe at a traffic stop, and that everyone walks our streets feeling they’re a member of the community. Law enforcement approaches all situations with patience and understanding of the situation at hand. 

As stated by Captain Jeff Cole, “You can’t serve the community if you don’t know them.” By prioritizing this comprehensive training, we are investing in the future of the City of Warren by crafting a more resilient, compassionate, and inclusive community. The foundations of Warren start with its individuals: our city is committed to keeping residents safe while upholding the values that make Warren a great place to live, work, and thrive. 

Building Safety and Trust

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