Mott Community College Chief of Police Receives Crime Fighter Award

Theresa Stephens-Lock, Chief of Police of Mott Community College Department of Public Safety in Flint, Michigan, was honored with the 2017 Crime Fighter Award this past June.

The award was presented to Chief Stephens-Lock, a longtime member of Fight Crime: Invest in Kids, to recognize the work she has done to help kids get the great start they need in life in order to become productive citizens, thereby reducing the likelihood they will become involved in crime.

“As a Fight Crime: Invest in Kids member for more than ten years, Chief Stephens-Lock has done tremendous work to advocate for policies that cut crime and protect public safety while ensuring kids can succeed in life,” Josh Spaulding, Acting National Director of Fight Crime: Invest in Kids, said. “This includes participating in community listening sessions and joining urging lawmakers to support policies and programs proven to cut crime and put kids on a path towards productive lives.”

But there are additional investments - like community college - lawmakers can make to develop the workforce and help prevent crime. That’s why, as Chief of Police for Mott Community College’s Department of Public Safety, Stephens-Lock is acutely aware of the benefits community college can have on public safety.

Community college is crucial in preparing students to enter the workforce. This is especially important to law enforcement recruits who face challenges that are unique to policing, such as adapting to new technology or knowing how to de-escalate tense situations that can lead to violence. Strong community college programs provide these students with the skills they need to succeed on the job.

Read more in our report, “Public Safety, Public Savings, and a Better Economy for All.”