The Wichita Police Department has started a new training program that is in use for more than 300 law enforcement agencies across the country.  The program is called ABLE, for Active Bystandership for Law Enforcement.

Training in the program gives officers the knowledge and skills necessary to intervene in situations where fellow officers may be engaging in inappropriate or potentially harmful behavior.  It is being incorporated into other training programs involving de-escalation, negotiations and situations with people in crisis.   The ABLE program was launched in collaboration with the Wichita NAACP, the Wichita Ministerial League, and the group Civic Engagement.

Police Chief Joe Sullivan said the training is an investment in the health and wellness of officers.  He said by fostering a culture of active intervention and reporting, the department is upholding professional standards and placing a priority on the mental and emotional well-being of its personnel, thereby advancing public safety.     Chief Sullivan said the training will ensure that officers are well prepared to handle diverse situations professionally and sensibly.

Patrol West Captain Ronald Hunt said this is an eight-hour program, and every officer has to attend the training, from the chief down to the recruit class.  He said officers will also have to maintain their certification each year.

Police Sergeant Ken Kimble is the WPD Training Coordinator, and he learned about ABLE in 2023 during a visit to the Topeka Police Department.   He said the program will give officers the ability to step in if they see bad behavior.   He said the officers will be able “to speak up at the moment they believe something is not happening the way it should happen.”    He said the program has been challenging and the discussions have been very positive.

NAACP president Larry Burks said his organization supports any initiative that helps the police department do its job better, and he said “We need to make sure we have a police force in this city that has the trust and the support of the community, and that will go a long way with this training.”