St. Cloud Sun

Minnesota State Senate Majority Leader Paul Gazelka recently selected state Sen. Andrew Mathews (R-Princeton) as the newest member of the Ensuring Police Excellence and Improving Community Relations Advisory Council.

The job of the council and its members is to work with the Peace Officer Standards and Training Board to maintain policies protecting both human and civil rights while encouraging good relations between law enforcement and the people they serve, according to a press release posted to the Minnesota Senate Republican Caucus website.

“I am honored to take on a role in furthering positive relations between peace officers and the communities they serve,” Mathews said. “The work this council does may have a great impact, and I take my responsibility to uphold high standards and protect constitutional rights very seriously.”

The council is composed of six community members; trained individuals in police training and work, mental health and victim’s advocacy; as well as four members of the legislature.