Fremantle Police’s new community engagement officer ready to jump into the role

THE Fremantle Police District has a new Community Engagement Coordinator-and she’s ready to hit the ground running.

Sergeant Kylie Thomas joined WA Police in 2006 with one big goal in mind; to protect those who could not protect themselves.

After beginning her career in Rockingham she transferred to Newman where she became the Crime Prevention and Diversity Officer, staying there until she moved back to Perth in 2013 and became a Detective two years later.

Promoted to Sergeant in April this year, she returned to uniform to take on the Community Engagement role, one she said she was excited to jump into.

“I was drawn to Community Engagement as it was a role I enjoyed and found very rewarding during my time in Newman,” she said.

“This new role will allow me the opportunity to shift my focus from solving crimes as a detective to implementing programs that will assist in the prevention of these crimes.

“I have always been community focused and enjoy the more personal approach to policing that involves working with likeminded people with the goal of protecting the vulnerable.”

Sgt Thomas said the role was an important one, providing a conduit between frontline officers, local government agencies, local businesses and the wider community.

“My role involves identifying and engaging external agencies and networks to develop programs and strategies that increase community safety and reduce crime,” she said.

“This is a large district that is progressive and culturally diverse which brings plenty of opportunities as well as challenges.

“I will be promoting public awareness via community events and presentations with a focus on supporting programs that assist diverting youth from crime and advocacy for the elderly and vulnerable.”