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7 Shocking Ways The Central Falls Police Dept Is Redefining Community Policing In Rhode Island

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The Central Falls Police Department (CFPD) is currently undergoing a transformative period, moving beyond traditional law enforcement models to embrace a community-centric approach that is setting a new standard for policing across Rhode Island and the nation. As of the current date in December 2025, the department is actively leveraging major federal grants and international recognition to enhance public safety, crime reduction, and community trust in one of the state's smallest yet most densely populated cities.

This deep dive explores the latest updates, key personnel, and groundbreaking initiatives that have put the CFPD in the national spotlight, from securing a massive federal hiring grant to winning a prestigious international award for its innovative programs. The department's commitment to non-violence and behavioral health integration is fundamentally changing how the Central Falls community interacts with its police force.

Colonel Anthony J. Roberson: The 19th Chief of Police

The Central Falls Police Department is helmed by Colonel Anthony J. Roberson, who serves as the 19th Chief of Police. His leadership has been the driving force behind the department's recent string of national and international accolades. Colonel Roberson's career profile is a testament to a deep commitment to both public safety and community partnership:

  • Title: Colonel, 19th Chief of Police, Central Falls Police Department.
  • Education: Holds a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice from Bellevue University and a Master of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Boston University.
  • Law Enforcement Career Start: Began his law enforcement career in 2002 as a patrol officer.
  • Key Departmental Roles: Has served as the Juvenile Hearing Board liaison, demonstrating a long-standing focus on youth engagement and intervention.
  • Military Service: Colonel Roberson has a distinguished military background, amassing over 2,200 flying hours and supporting combat and contingency operations across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
  • Signature Initiatives: He is the architect behind several award-winning community programs, including the "Handshake Initiative" and the "Bicycle Summer Safety Program."

The CFPD’s National and International Recognition Surge

The Central Falls Police Department is no longer just a local agency; it has become a case study for effective, modern community policing. In recent years, the department has secured multiple high-profile awards and recognitions that highlight its commitment to innovation and trust-building.

1. International Association Chiefs of Police (IACP) Award

In a major achievement, the CFPD was named the 2023 recipient of the Leadership in Community Policing Award from the International Association Chiefs of Police (IACP). This prestigious award recognizes law enforcement agencies worldwide for their groundbreaking community policing initiatives.

The recognition was largely due to the success of programs like the Leading Ladies Initiative, which advances the IACP's Trust Building goals. This focus on proactive, positive engagement has been critical to lessening crime levels in the city.

2. First in Rhode Island for Innovative Training and Safety

The CFPD has cemented its status as a leader in police training and school safety by becoming the first police department in Rhode Island to achieve several key distinctions:

  • National Model Agency Award: The department was the first in the state to receive the National Model Agency Award from the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO). This award underscores the CFPD's dedication to positive and professional school safety programs.
  • Nonviolence Institute Recognition: The department was also the first in Rhode Island to be recognized by The Nonviolence Institute for the completion of a rigorous, city-wide training program focused on non-violence and de-escalation. This commitment aligns with the city's broader non-violence initiatives, including the rollout of a new Central Falls Nonviolence Outreach specialist.

3. Major Federal Investment and Staffing Updates

To support its expanding role and community programs, the Central Falls Police Department has successfully secured significant federal funding for staffing. This investment is crucial for maintaining a strong and diverse police force capable of serving the city’s dense population.

The department secured a federal 2021 COPS Hiring Award totaling an impressive $1,197,460.00. This substantial grant is specifically designated to hire up to six (6) new officers, which will help to bolster patrol presence and support specialized units.

Increased staffing allows the department to focus on its core mission: to protect life and property and enforce the law in a fair and impartial manner.

4. Behavioral Health and Public Safety Integration

One of the most modern and impactful initiatives is the CFPD's commitment to integrating mental and behavioral health services directly into its operations. Recognizing that many calls for service involve underlying mental health or substance abuse issues, the department has taken proactive steps to provide non-law enforcement support.

The CFPD has embedded a Behavioral Health Clinician directly within the department. This program allows police to respond to crises with a trained mental health professional, diverting non-criminal calls away from the justice system and connecting residents with necessary care. Mayor Maria Rivera praised this initiative, noting that it takes the city's recognized community policing to the "next level" of impact and care.

5. Recent Crime Statistics and Enforcement Focus (2024 Data)

The department's annual reports provide clear metrics on its enforcement activities and the state of public safety. The 2024 Annual Report shows a detailed breakdown of arrests, reflecting the daily work of the patrol officers and detectives:

  • Total Arrests in 2024: The CFPD made a total of 479 arrests.
  • Adult Arrests: Of the total arrests, 418 were adults.
  • Juvenile Arrests: There were 58 juvenile arrests, which are often handled in conjunction with the Juvenile Hearing Board.

The department continues to work closely with other regional agencies, including the Providence Police Department and the Woonsocket Police Department, on major events and regional crime suppression efforts.

6. High-Profile Investigations and Recent Incidents

The CFPD remains vigilant in addressing serious crime and maintaining public order. Recent activity highlights the ongoing need for dedicated patrol and investigative work:

  • Fatal Shooting Investigation: As recently as December 2025 (according to a forward-dated press release), the Central Falls Police Department was actively investigating a fatal shooting that occurred on a Saturday, demonstrating the department's immediate and comprehensive response to violent crime.
  • Motor Vehicle Enforcement: The department frequently collaborates with the Rhode Island State Police on motor vehicle and traffic enforcement, leading to arrests for various offenses.

7. Community-Focused Programs Beyond Enforcement

Under Chief Roberson's leadership, the CFPD is heavily invested in programs that foster positive relationships, especially with youth. These initiatives are the core of the department's award-winning community policing strategy:

  • The Handshake Initiative: A simple yet effective program designed to encourage positive, non-enforcement interactions between officers and community members.
  • Bicycle Summer Safety Program: A dedicated effort to engage youth during summer months, promoting safety while building trust and mentorship opportunities between children and officers.
  • School Safety Program: The department's work with NASRO has led to the implementation of a comprehensive City-Wide School Safety Program, ensuring a safe and secure learning environment for all students.

The Central Falls Police Department, located at 160 Illinois St., Central Falls, RI 02863, continues to evolve as a modern, progressive law enforcement agency. Its recent achievements in securing federal grants, winning international awards, and pioneering behavioral health integration solidify its reputation as a model for small-city policing in the 21st century.

7 Shocking Ways the Central Falls Police Dept is Redefining Community Policing in Rhode Island
central falls police dept
central falls police dept

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