Dear Fellow Citizens of Chicago,

 “Together We Can”

“People do not care about how much we know until they know how much we care.” - Theodore Roosevelt

We are writing to express our strong endorsement of Commander Roderick S. Watson as the ideal candidate for the position of Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. As long-time community pastors and leaders, we have worked with many individuals in various fields, and can confidently say that Commander Watson possesses the experience, leadership, and dedication required to transform the Chicago Police Department into the model for modern day policing that the children, individuals, and families of the city deserve.

What uniquely sets Commander Watson apart is his extensive history of creating community policing models that bridge the divide between the community and the police department. He understands that trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the public are essential for creating a safe and just society. Through his “Together We Can” strategy the 3rd Police District has developed effective partnerships with community leaders, youth, pastors, business owners, and residents to foster mutual understanding, respect and high levels of community engagement and civic responsibility.

Commander Watson is a transformative servant-leader with an impressive background in law enforcement that spans close to 30 years. Under his direction the 3rd District is focused on delivering outstanding public service by focusing on transformational relationships versus transactional; enforcing transparency with the community by being open and honest about department policies, procedures, and actions; prioritizing compassion and respect without underplaying the need for protecting the community from violent offenders; and recognizing the humanity of officers under his command. He has consistently created a culture of respect and support, where officers and the community that they serve are equally valued and honored.

Abbreviated List of Accomplishments

• 28.6% crime reduction and 20.5% reduction in shooting in 3rd District from 2021/2022
• Authored Real Women and Real Men Talk Series* (see below)
• Developed Asylum Shelter Safety Plan for migrants for the 003rd District which is being implemented by the city of Chicago.
• Supervised Tactical Team
• Executive Officer for Bureau of Patrol
• Developed CPD Shooting Review
• Authored the CPD Gang Violence Reduction Strategy
• Served in the CPD Counterterrorism Narcotic Division
• Served as Field Sergeant monitoring officer’s performance in the field.
• Trained officers nationwide in Gang Violence Reduction Strategy
• Managed the CPD Custom Notifications Program
• Served as Gang Intelligence Officer
• Expanded Prayer Resource Walks
• Created Restorative Justice Peace series
• Served as Community Policing (CAPS) and Watch Operation Lieutenant
• Created Wellness Wednesdays for Officers

*The purpose of the Talking Series with the Third District is to openly discuss the relationships (past and present) between the community and law enforcement. This is an open forum to ask questions, share thoughts, and raise concerns in an effort to strengthen the relationship between the community and law enforcement

Commander Watson in Action:

 

 

Small Gallery of Commander's Watson Commitment to Community Policing

 

Commander Watson greets community members.

 

 

Commander Watson and Pastor Alonzo Nichols pray for a new mother and child.

 

 

Commander Watson & staff celebrate involved community advocates.

 

 

Commander Watson and Operation Neighborhood Safety create a safe space at besieged gas stations.

 

 

Commander Watson honors community organizer Sam Binion for his years of service.

 

 

 

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