In an effort to bolster the Police Department's relationship with the Ferndale community, the Department established its first Community Engagement Officer position in July of 2016. Officer Jillian Malhmeister has held the position since 2019 and continues to reinforce the Department’s goal of being an innovative, community-oriented policing model. Through this model, the Department has focused on reorganizing efforts towards the community, and ultimately, the people it strives to protect. Officer Mahlmeister prioritizes this commitment by meeting with residents and local leaders, becoming involved with community groups and organizations, and familiarizing direct contact with the Department through the Citizens Police Academy.

Officer Mahlmeister also serves as an LGBTQ Liaison, working one-on-one with community groups and members to advocate for policies that affect the LGBTQ community; advise the Mayor and City Council on LGBTQ issues at the local, state, and national levels; and work to eliminate bigotry, discrimination, and prejudice on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, HIV/AIDS and expression within the City.

The Community Engagement Department is currently undergoing a transition and more information on this change will be available soon. If you have any questions regarding Community Engagement Opportunities, please contact the Deputy Chief at 248-284-5372 or dspellman@ferndalepolice.org.