TULSA, Okla. — Nearly a week after Governor Stitt implemented Operation SAFE, Tulsa Police Chief Dennis Larsen shared a statement detailing his thoughts on tackling the homelessness crisis with the Tulsa community.
On Tuesday, Chief Larsen shared to the Tulsa Police Department Facebook page a post containing a statement that expressed his thoughts on the ongoing efforts to combat homelessness within the city.
“Without a doubt, homelessness is top of mind for all of us right now. As the Chief of Police, I regularly meet with members of the community and collaborate on strategies to address the issue that is clearly impacting Tulsa,” wrote Larsen. “The complexity of this issue creates numerous challenges for homeless individuals and families, as well as citizens and businesses. Getting individuals and families off the streets and into safe, secure housing is the long-term goal. With valiant efforts by citizen groups, the faith community, and public safety, we are making initial, positive strides to eliminate homelessness.”
Larsen continued to share that the Tulsa Police Department has been training officers in de-escalation tactics and ways to identify the needs of the homeless community to better connect them with resources and services…