On June 24, Sumner police received funding for a grant request in the amount of $93,683 to fund a Sumner Police Department officer for a year to work as a gang intervention officer.

This grant is awarded by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs in conjunction with the department of Community Trade and Economic Development, and the Federal Bureau of Justice.

“People may think it sounds funny to talk about gangs in a small city like Sumner,” said Police Chief John Galle. “But, if you ignore the ‘large city’ issues, like gang involvement, they can come to your community too. It’s much more effective to be proactive and keep our community safe rather than wait to react to situations.”

The gang intervention officer will collaborate with community organizations such as Safe Streets and Communities for Families.

The officer will assist the Sumner School District in working with students who are at risk of joining gangs.

“This support couldn’t have come at a better time,” said Mayor Dave Enslow. “With the tough budget situation we’re facing, this funding will go a long way toward helping us provide the high quality of police protection and safety that we enjoy here in Sumner.”

To comment on this story view it online at www.blscourierherald. Reach Chaz Holmes at 360-802-8208 or cholmes@cmg-northwest2.go-vip.net/courierherald.