RILEY COUNTY —On May 3, Senator Roger Marshall convened a roundtable discussion at the Riley County Police Department headquarters, inviting law enforcement officials from surrounding agencies to provide insights into prevalent issues within their jurisdictions.
The meeting aimed to address concerns ranging from drug activities and human trafficking to broader law enforcement challenges.
During the discussion, various representatives highlighted critical issues and initiatives within their respective departments. Notable discussions included, but were not limited to, the following topics:
- Emphasizing the reprioritization of efforts toward combating human trafficking, with a particular focus on tackling the surge in fentanyl-related incidents.
- Budgetary constraints and the importance of leveraging federal funds for technological advancements, including the implementation of tag readers for enhanced surveillance. Strains on local budgets due to technological demands, particularly in cybersecurity, and the importance of addressing these issues at their source.
- The efforts of the DEA task force in combating drug distribution networks, particularly focusing on arresting individuals responsible for fentanyl-related overdoses. Discussions highlighted the vulnerability of juveniles and the urgent need for law enforcement and prosecution education.
- Addressing the escalating mental health crisis, stressing the need for better resources and education, particularly targeting school-aged children.
- Advocating for increased education and training for officers in dealing with fentanyl-related incidents and emphasized the importance of proactive measures in drug detection.
- Concerns regarding the lack of body scanners in jails and reiterated the mental health challenges faced by staff, leading to retention issues.
- Cybersecurity challenges and the need for sustained funding for maintenance and training, particularly regarding new technologies.
Senator Marshall addressed the gathered officials, underscoring the importance of prioritizing mental health care within law enforcement agencies and advocating for increased support and resources. He expressed concerns about the stress levels among law enforcement personnel, drawing parallels with the high suicide rates among farmers.
RCPD would like to extend our gratitude to Senator Roger Marshall for his unwavering commitment to our communities and law enforcement agencies. The dedication to understanding and addressing the challenges we face is invaluable. We appreciate greatly the opportunity to engage in constructive dialog.