Office of the Chief of Police

To the Williston community

In the days since the tragic death of George Floyd, which is unfortunately only the most recent example of a black life taken too soon at the hands of an American police officer, I have, like many of you, thought deeply about systemic racism that has brought our country to this point.

The video of Mr. Floyd’s murder is horrific. As a law enforcement officer, it was particularly disturbing to watch four officers so blatantly disregarding their most fundamental responsibility: protecting human life. 

I want to assure you that the officers sworn to protect the Williston community are trained never to use the tactics we witnessed in that video. The use of force is always a last resort, no matter the circumstances. The Williston Police Department is also committed to de-escalating conflict, valuing diversity in our community and fulfilling our sworn duty with care and compassion.

Above all, I want the community to know that your police department stands in solidarity with you. Black lives matter in our community, our country and throughout the world. We stand with all those peacefully raising their voices to share that critical message to bring about meaningful and lasting change, including the end of systemic racism. 

I applaud the decision to charge each of the four officers involved in Mr. Floyd’s murder with the crimes they committed, but there’s more work to be done. The Williston Police Department is committed to looking inward and seeing what areas we can improve upon here at home. This critical work includes adapting our policies and procedures to even further instill in our officers the importance of community policing, and a shared sense of purpose in addressing racism.

Williston residents should know that their police department is, and always will be an ally in the fight for equality.


Sincerely,

Chief Patrick T. Foley

Williston Police Department