The LEPP interacts with the Topeka Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies to address issues including operation policies and procedures, complaint process, race relations, training, education, community policing, and community statistical reporting.

The LEPP also serves as a tool to improve the relationship between the local government and the community pertaining to law enforcement issues. The LEPP acts in an interactive capacity and has no authority over any department or entity.

“I encourage any citizen of Topeka and Shawnee County who is concerned about crime in the community to consider applying for this panel,” Topeka Police Chief Ron Miller said. “This is a great opportunity for the community to work together.”

All citizens of Topeka and Shawnee County are able to apply. Applications may be obtained at the NAACP office, 501 Southeast Jefferson, the HRC office, 620 Southeast Madison, second floor, the Law Enforcement Center, 320 South Kansas. They are also available on-line at the City of Topeka’s website, www.topeka.org.

To have one mailed, please call the HRC at 785-368-3606. For Kansas Relay Assistance, dial 7-1-1.

Applications are being accepted through December 18, 2009 and should be returned to the Topeka Branch-NAACP Office, 501 S E Jefferson, Topeka KS 66607. Following review of the applications, an interview process will begin, conducted by the LEPP Steering Committee and current members of the LEPP.

The LEPP was created in 2007 through a partnership of the Topeka Branch-NAACP and the City of Topeka, including the City Manager, the Human Relations Commission (HRC) and the Police Department, the U. S. Department of Justice, and members of the faith community and the legal field.

For more information call Rio Cervantes-Reed, HRC Director at 785-368-3606.