The Hispanic population is one of the fastest growing ethnic groups in the nation with more than 460,000 Hispanics living in VA. Nowhere is it more prevalent than in the Metro Richmond Area where the population more than tripled since 1999.
In an effort to reach out to the Hispanic population and develop a more positive relationship between the Hispanic/Latino community and the city, Richmond Police Department’s Second Precinct, under the leadership and guidance of Commander Steve Drew, appointed Officer Julissa Booth to the position of Hispanic Liaison Officer.
Captain Drew’s purpose, as well as the goal of the Richmond Police Department, is to meet the public safety needs of the Hispanic community while building on the trust and communication that currently exists between the Police Department and the Hispanic Community.
This will mark a positive image the Latino Community will have in regards to any and all interactions with the Richmond Police Department.
In addition to providing uniformed patrol to the South Side of Richmond, some of Officer Booth’s objectives are as follows:
Establishing a positive relationship with the Hispanic community by ensuring that the police are called when needed and providing a quick response. This will be accomplished with the Spanish Tip line (239-4209). This tip line is manned 24hours a day by Officer Booth.
The Hispanic Liaison Officer will be the point of contact for the police department with all agencies working in the Hispanic community
Actively recruit qualified Hispanic candidates for employment with the Richmond Police Department
Assist in the training of Hispanic Police Academies and of officers on the topics of basic police commands as well as eliminate any cultural barriers.
Assist fellow Officers and Detectives, with investigations while responding to incidences involving Spanish speaking parties.
Conduct outreach to the Latino community and educate on laws regarding Virginia.
Develop relationships with businesses, civic associations, and members of the Hispanic community in an effort to identify issues affecting them in Richmond, while educating business owners on the safest business practices in an effort to avert victimization.
Actively work with the Spanish newspapers and Latino radio station (Radio 1380AM) to present written and verbal crime prevention information.
Enhance the Hispanic community’s involvement in police programs such as Neighborhood watch.
Captain Drew has created this important resource for the Hispanic residence, in the City of Richmond, and is convinced that the community and the police department will bridge a stronger partnership because of this.
You can reach Officer Booth by calling 239-4209 or emailing. You can also visit Second Precinct at 177 E Belt Blvd, Richmond VA 23224. 804-646-8093
Other Spanish speaking officers at 2nd Precinct:
Officer Jorge Thondique
Officer Prabhat McDonnough-Contreras
Officer Alejandro Ardila
Officer Juan Tejada
