On November 21, the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) announced the release of a new resource guide, Resource Guide for Enhancing Community Relationships and Protecting Privacy and Constitutional Rights, which is intended to help law enforcement officers build stronger community-police relations. This Guide is the result of a collaboration between BJA and the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS).

Attorney General Eric Holder stated, "The Justice Department encourages law enforcement officials, in every jurisdiction, to work with the communities they serve to minimize needless confrontation. It is vital to engage in planning and preparation, from evaluating protocols and training to choosing the appropriate equipment and uniforms. This is the hard work that is necessary to preserve the peace and maintain the public trust at all times-particularly in moments of heightened community tension." COPS Office Director Ron Davis added, "Law enforcement officers are stewards of the peace and protectors of the people, but above all else, they are custodians of the public trust. As a former police chief, I am proud of the work we are doing at the Department of Justice to help America's public safety professionals carry out this sacred duty."
 
BJA and COPS have a long-standing relationship developing materials for law enforcement agencies on community policing, building community trust, diversity training, privacy protections, and safeguarding first amendment rights. This is an additional outstanding tool that has been added to an impressive library of resources.
 
For more information about COPS, please visit www.cops.usdoj.gov.