The City of Roanoke, in collaboration with the Center for Policing Equity (CPE), has launched a multi-year partnership to promote equitable public safety outcomes for all residents.
“Partnering with the Center for Policing Equity is a valuable opportunity to use proven, data-driven strategies to support our ongoing efforts at increasing public safety, reducing harm, and promoting equitable policing in Roanoke,” said City Manager Valmarie Turner. “This partnership will help us develop more initiatives to make Roanoke safer for all.”
Over the next three years, the Roanoke Police Department will work closely with CPE to analyze use-of-force and vehicle-stop data, as well as calls for service and officer-initiated activity. This process will support data-informed decision-making and enhance equity in public safety across the city.
The information developed by CPE will offer actionable insights and recommendations, empowering Roanoke officials and community members to work together toward common safety goals. This partnership underscores Roanoke’s efforts to advance transparency and equity in public safety, and CPE’s commitment to using science and collaboration to drive meaningful, community-focused change.
Niles Wilson, Sr. Director of Law Enforcement Initiatives at CPE, emphasized the importance of collaboration and local leadership: “This partnership is not just about data – it’s about empowering leaders and community members to work together for real change. Roanoke’s willingness to participate shows a genuine commitment to equitable public safety.”
The partnership also demonstrates the City’s ongoing commitment to strengthening community trust.
“The best policing is policing that is willing to learn,” said Roanoke Chief of Police Scott C. Booth. “Together, we’ll use data, transparency, and community feedback to better understand what’s working, identify opportunities to improve, and ensure our strategies are effective, equitable, and accountable.”
