STOW – The following is a statement from Chief Michael Sallese regarding the mass shooting incident in Boulder, Colorado:
“The entire Stow Police Department is deeply saddened by the senseless violence that took the lives of Boulder, Colorado Police Officer Eric Talley and nine other people in a supermarket on Monday, March 22. Our hearts go out to the victims’ families and their loved ones.
“Officer Talley gave his life to protect the community he loved. This terrible loss is a solemn reminder of the risks that law enforcement faces.
“We firmly believe supporting those struggling with mental-health issues is a key part of working to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future. The Stow Police Department is pro-actively expanding mental-health resources for our community. This includes seeking grant funding for a clinician, who will co-respond with the Department to situations involving those suffering from mental-health crises, and connecting them and their loved ones with local resources and support. The clinician also will follow up with those who seek mental-health support and substance-abuse help.
“Police Department staff also continue to train in the latest de-escalation techniques as a critical facet of 21st century policing, to ensure the best possible outcome in any situation.
“The Stow Police Department further wishes to reaffirm we are fully committed to protecting the safety and well-being of everyone in our community, and are prepared and on standby to respond to any emergency or need that may arise.”