October 17, 2016

Bristol Legislators Spend Time Riding with Bristol Police Department

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BRISTOL – To get an up-close and personal view of the Bristol Police Department, State Reps. Whit Betts (R-78) and Cara C. Pavalock (R-77) recently spent time touring the Police Department and riding along with BPD officers during afternoon shifts as they patrolled the city.

The lawmakers were each given tours of the facility and discussed current legislative issues affecting law enforcement, highlighting the importance of their visit to the Police Department. Betts stated, “As an Assistant Leader in the House Republican Caucus and legislator in the General Assembly, it is important that I remain informed about the issues and challenges that affect policing in our communities. During any given legislative session, many policies and bills are debated by lawmakers that directly affect public safety and law enforcement. I appreciate Sergeant Rodney Gotowala taking the time to meet with me and discuss how the state legislature can support law enforcement while our dedicated men and women in uniform work to keep our citizens and our neighborhoods safe.”

During the ride-alongs, Reps. Betts and Pavalock observed first-hand, how dedicated police officers and emergency responders protect the residents of Bristol. Rep. Pavalock stated that her police ride-along with Sergeant Scott Thomas gave her a greater appreciation of the local police job requirements and demanding schedule.

“I want to thank Sergeant Thomas for allowing me to spend time with him and talk with him about the daily challenges in the line of duty that our police officers face,” said Rep. Pavalock. “Both the tour of the Police Department, and my ride throughout the community with Sergeant Thomas were very informative and gave me the opportunity to witness first-hand, the genuine care for the residents of our community, and the professionalism with which our officers conduct themselves. This experience was invaluable to me as a legislator and will certainly inform discussions I have with fellow lawmakers on issues regarding law enforcement and public safety. I thank all of the brave men and women of the Bristol Police Department for all that they do to protect us each and every day.”

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