Forum to Address Violence at Religious Centers

On the heels of another attack at a religious center, last week’s shootings in New Zealand, an event next Tuesday evening in Cody will focus on keeping churches safe.

The U.S. Department of Justice, in cooperation with the Police Departments in Cody and Powell and the Park County Sheriff’s Office, are sponsoring a forum entitled, “Protecting Houses of Worship” next Tuesday at the Cody Auditorium.

This free event at 6 p.m. on March 26^th is open to all churches and faith-based organizations in Park County. According to Cody Police Chief Chuck Baker, presenters will discuss a variety of issues relating to protecting houses of worship in an increasingly uncertain world.

But he says that law enforcement can only do so much – to help keep crime down, organizations must work together.

Baker says some of the issues discussed will be hate crimes, “active shooter” situations, general risk assessment and safety awareness, to be proactive in developing a comprehensive and balanced security plan.

He points out that the forum is happening because of requests from local church communities and on-going discussions with Park County law enforcement officials, security professionals and spiritual leaders.

The event is free; however, groups and individuals are asked to register by contacting Executive Administrative Assistant Aimee Childress with the Cody Police Department.