Police-Community Relations In Focus At Denver Meeting
DENVER (CBS4) - Nearly 700 people crowded into the auditorium of a Denver church on Tuesday night to address police relations in the community.
A panel of Denver metro area sheriffs and police chiefs answered questions from residents, many of whom are still reeling after the recent police shootings of Jessie Hernandez and Naeschylus Vinzant.
Dr. Chris Hill, the senior pastor of The Potter's House of Denver, organized the event. As the son of a police officer and father of two black sons, he has a unique perspective on the issue.
Hill says the culture needs to change on both sides.
"That thin blue line has now become a wall. And if we don't engender conversation and change I'm frightened for where we're headed," he told CBS4.
Arapahoe County Sheriff David Walcher admitted police relations with the community have reached an all-time low.
"We seem to be, in my opinion, more divided than we have ever have been in my lifetime," Walcher said during the meeting.
Denver Police Chief Robert White was emotional from his seat on the panel as he promised changes.
"I am committed with every fiber in my body to make sure that we provide the services that you are absolutely entitled to," White said.
RELATED: Denver Police Chief Steps Up Outreach After Fatal Shooting
The police agents at the meeting admitted that they are not perfect and many others besides White said changes need to be made in their departments.
Aurora Police Chief Nick Metz was among those featured on the panel. He responded to several questions about the shooting of Vinzant, and admitted there could have been some changes made to how Aurora officers handled the case. He said he promises to learn from the case, move on and improve.
