Community Policing Event Held in Farmville

Prince Edward’s Commonwealth’s Attorney Spearheads Event

By Crystal Vandegrift, Staff Writer

FARMVILLE – Prince Edward Commonwealth’s Attorney Megan Clark recently spearheaded a community policing forum between citizens and law enforcement.

The event, which began with a memorial service on the courthouse steps, had about 75 in attendance and proved to be a great way for both citizens and law enforcement to voice their concerns.

The memorial service honored both victims of police shootings and law enforcement members who have lost their lives during recent events across the country.

“It was very good,” said Clark. “There was a great turnout and there was no animosity shown. I think law enforcement did a great job explaining things and they were very optimistic and honest about what their departments could improve upon.”

Virginia State Police, Prince Edward County Sheriff Department, Farmville Police and both Longwood and Hampden-Sydney Police Departments took part in the event.

Clark said she came up with the idea of having a forum because several citizens had approached her. “I had several people ask me, ‘Are we going to do something?’,” she said referring to recent nationwide violence among police and citizens. “And I said from the very beginning I wanted to have more of a community presence.”

When it came to the question of racial profiling, Clark said that it has not necessarily been seen locally, but police did agree that racial profiling still happens.

One improvement that was discussed by law enforcement was bringing a more professional aspect to the citizens in both appearance and demeanor.

According to Clark bringing more diversity to the departments, not only racial but in ethnicity as well, was addressed.

Acting Farmville Police Chief Andy Ellington who took part in the event said he felt the forum very positive. “I commend our Commonwealth’s Attorney Megan Clarke for stepping forward and organizing the meeting, and doing an outstanding job as the moderator as well.”

“Thankfully, our community has not experienced what other parts of this nation are going through,” added Clark, who is hoping to hold more events in the near future. “Our law enforcement is here to protect and serve and we have to do our part as well.”