A college educated workforce is the foundation on which to build upon the reform proposals of the past 18 months.
21st Century policing techniques require critical thinking, the ability to analyze complex problems and effective communication skills. Officers who can skillfully de-escalate volatile situations are in high demand because the resolve problems efficiently.
Studies indicate that college educated officers have a significantly reduced likelihood of using force, including firing their weapon.
Every Police Department in Massachusetts must have the same tools to recruit a highly educated, diverse and effective police department. This must include an equal pay for equal work salary scale.
For all of these reasons and more, I ask that you support aligning the MA State Police recruitment tools with municipalities across the state and offer education incentives for our State Troopers!