Courtney Joins Norwich Police For Ride-Along | Congressman Joe Courtney
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Courtney Joins Norwich Police For Ride-Along

August 8, 2016

NORWICH, C.T.—Today, Representative Joe Courtney (CT-02) joined the Norwich Police Department for a ride-along to experience firsthand the contributions area police make toward protecting and serving our local communities. Courtney spent time with Sgt. Michael McKinney, a 17-year veteran of the force and U.S. Army veteran, who has been closely involved with community policing and engagement initiatives. Courtney then joined officers on the road and on a patrol boat on the Thames River. The boat was purchased in 2010 with grant money Courtney supported from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

“It was an honor to join the Norwich Police Department for a ride-along so I could experience firsthand the work our local police officers are carrying out on our behalf each day,” said Courtney. “It was especially gratifying to see the efforts of the Department to combat opioid abuse in our region. The drop box they offer for citizens to safely dispose of their unneeded prescription drug products has been particularly successful. I want to thank Sgt. McKinney and his law enforcement colleagues for their commitment to community engagement and daily work on behalf of Norwich and the region. ”

Courtney has been a leading advocate in Congress calling for federal action to address the growing drug abuse epidemic nationwide. In February, he introduced the Opioid and Heroin Epidemic Emergency Supplemental Appropriations Act with Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.). The bill would provide $600 million in emergency supplemental appropriations to support drug treatment opportunities, education and prevention initiatives, and support law enforcement efforts by making grants available to local communities through the Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Justice (DOJ).

Photos available upon request.

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