Townsend Police Department Represented at National Community Engagement Training Conference

TOWNSEND — Townsend Police Chief James Sartell is pleased to share that Sgt. David Phillips and Administrative Assistant Jessica Demeo represented the department at the 2026 Professionalizing Law Enforcement Community Engagement Training (PLECET) Conference in Dallas, Texas.

The conference hosted law enforcement professionals from across the country to share ideas, best practices and innovative approaches to community engagement and public safety. Attendees heard from speakers including Acting Attorney General of the United States Todd Blanche, FBI Director Kash Patel, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Director Robert Cekada, and more.

“One of the most valuable parts of attending PLECET was the opportunity to hear from law enforcement leaders from across the country and exchange ideas with officers from agencies of all sizes,” said Sgt. Phillips. “The conference reinforced the importance of building strong relationships with our community and provided practical tools that we can bring back and apply here in Townsend.”

Sgt. Phillips and Demeo participated in a variety of training sessions focused on leadership, community engagement, building public trust, officer wellness and agency partnerships.

The conference provided insight into the challenges law enforcement is currently facing and offered practical strategies.

Along with their commitment at the conference, Demeo and Sgt. Phillips volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House, where they helped restore a gate by sanding and repainting it.

“Opportunities like the PLECET Conference are invaluable in ensuring our department remains well-trained and connected to our community,” said Chief Sartell. “I’m proud of Sgt. Phillips and Jessica for representing Townsend and for bringing back knowledge that will directly benefit our community.”

The Townsend Police Department looks forward to applying what was learned at the conference as it strives to always provide the highest level of service to the residents of Townsend.

 ###