WPS Chief Daryl Longworth Issues Statement Regarding Black Lives Matter Movement in Woodstock

Friday, 5 June 2020 16:17

"I believe the members of the Woodstock Police Service do an excellent job protecting and engaging with our community. But I also recognize we are not perfect. We can do better and my commitment to you is that we will do better."

WOODSTOCK - Woodstock Police Chief Darly Longworth has released an official statement and video regarding the Black Lives Matter movement in Woodstock.

Here is his full statement:

Woodstock Police Chief, Daryl Longworth addresses the Black Lives Matter movement in Woodstock, ON.

The members of the Woodstock Police Service are committed to serving and protecting everyone in our community. Far too often in our world we see violent and racist behaviors by some in power or with authority, including by some in law enforcement. These types of behaviours have no place in our community and will not be tolerated within our police service.

As police officers – sworn to protect and to serve – we are shaken, angry and extremely saddened by the death of George Floyd in the U.S. It was abhorrent and has rightly created a movement to denounce the actions of those officers involved and any police officer who isn’t absolutely committed to equality and human rights.

While there will be a police presence at the silent protest on Sunday, I want to assure both organizers and attendees that we will be there to stand with you. We will be there to ensure the safety of all involved, but we also share in your outrage at the death of Mr. Floyd.

I believe the members of the Woodstock Police Service do an excellent job protecting and engaging with our community. But I also recognize we are not perfect. We can do better and my commitment to you is that we will do better.

Our new strategic plan, which is being presented to the Police Services Board Monday, June 8, 2020, includes commitments to continue to foster continuous collaborative engagement and dialogue with our diverse communities, and to provide enhanced diversity and conflict resolution training for our members. This is a commitment that we take very seriously. We know there is work to do and we are committed to working with our community to ensure everyone feels safe and included.

We see you. We hear you. We stand with you.