The Winchester Police Department is the recipient of a $20,000 grant from Virginia’s “Policing in the 21st Century” initiative. The funding is designed to help build and strengthen relationships between law enforcement and the community.
The Department of Criminal Justice Services awarded a total of $756,327 to 30 departments across the state .The funds will allow the Winchester Police Department to continue to host a weekly “Teen Night” at the Youth Development Center.
“Our teen nights have proven to be an effective way to build relationships with area youth. It’s an opportunity for kids to see our officers on a more personal level and realize they can have fun, too,” said Police Chief Kevin Sanzenbacher. “The officers enjoy getting on the court and challenging kids one-on-one. It’s a great way for them to see another side of police officers,” he said.
The Winchester Police Department launched the initiative in January, 2016 as a way to engage with youth and improve relationships with minorities in the community. Each week, between 20-40 teens, attend the event. Activities include basketball, volleyball, movies, pool, and ping pong.
“Strong police-community relationships are essential to protecting the safety of families and businesses in every community in our Commonwealth,” said Governor Terry McAuliffe. “I commend the agencies that are receiving this award for their outstanding leadership on these important issues,” he said. Money for the grants will come from federal funds awarded to the Commonwealth from the Edward Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program.
The Winchester Police Department hosted a year-end celebration last week. “Teen Night” will resume in early 2017 and will be held Thursday evenings from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Rides are available for teens. The Timbrook Public Safety Center, located at 231 E. Piccadilly St., will also serve as a pick-up and drop-off location.
Funding through the Community Policing grant covers overtime pay and rental fees of the facility. The Department is looking for sponsors to help cover the costs of snacks. Donations can be made through the Frederick County/Winchester Law Enforcement Foundation. The Foundation accepts checks at the Winchester Police Department, or online HERE.