Vermont Criminal Justice Council Appoints New Leadership Amid Recruitment Challenges
MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – The Vermont Criminal Justice Council has welcomed new leadership, appointing William Clements, a former criminal justice professor at Norwich University, as its chair. Christopher Brickell has been named the executive director, bringing fresh perspectives to the organization responsible for establishing the rules, policies, and standards governing police officers across the state.
Under the new leadership, the council is prioritizing the recruitment and retention of officers in Vermont’s police departments, which are currently facing significant challenges in staffing. Brickell emphasized the struggle many departments have in filling their ranks, highlighting the necessity for collaboration between the council and law enforcement agencies to address these issues effectively. "They’re really the ones that are struggling the most… to work collaboratively with us to ensure we can deliver training that suits their needs," Brickell stated.
In response to these challenges, the council is also undertaking a comprehensive rewrite of the curriculum at the Vermont Police Academy, focusing on evidence-based practices. This modernized approach to police training is anticipated to be implemented by January 2027, aiming to enhance the skill sets of new officers and improve the overall quality of law enforcement in Vermont.
As the council embarks on this strategic direction, the leadership change underscores its commitment to fostering a stronger, more competent police force while addressing the pressing need for officers in the state. With these initiatives, Vermont’s Criminal Justice Council is poised to make significant contributions to the future of policing in the region.
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