Braveheart chaplains provide critical service

As a police officer for 12 years, I have witnessed my fair share of tragedy. Law Enforcement officers often encounter this challenging dynamic of responsibility of investigative decisions mixed with the morality and human response to trauma. How do we maintain integrity of the scene without further traumatizing victims on the worst day of their lives?

This past week, I responded with other KPD members to a suicide. The scene was chaotic. I heard over the radio that Chaplain Michelle Van Allen would be responding to the scene to assist. I watched as an officer spoke to an uncontrollable loved one that had just witnessed the unimaginable.

Some of the questions we ask are met with anger and emotion and we understand and prepare for this. As a profession, we can fall short, not because of a lack of compassion but because of the obligation we have to our community to investigate to the fullest, and to find the truth. This is where we need help and it came with the arrival of Chaplain Van Allen.

I was in awe at the calmness and seemingly determined look she presented as she voluntarily introduced herself into this tragedy. Chaplain Van Allen immediately calmed this family member. She brought comfort and support and listened to the pain the person was in while reassuring them that they would be OK. Chaplain Van Allen answered questions and offered guidance in a way that allows law enforcement to focus on the other details of this scene.

I have always supported what Braveheart Chaplain Ministry provides, but watching Chaplain Van Allen this night displayed the unbelievable service they offer. Thank you Michelle, for the support you bring our first responders and the poise and skillset you show while doing it!

Jordan Venezio is a lieutenant with the Kalispell Police Department.