Two years ago, Columbia came together to mourn the death of Officer Greg Alia, the first Forest Acres police officer killed in the line of duty since 1974. His wife Kassy Alia (founder of the nonprofit Heroes in Blue) will host Compassion in Action, a public rally to promote positive relations between the community + law enforcement at the Statehouse, this Saturday, Sept. 30 (the two-year anniversary of his murder), 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Kassy began Heroes in Blue shortly after her husband’s death to promote community recognition of law enforcement’s heroic work, provide support for officers + their families and to start a positive, open conversation between law enforcement + the community.
In a survey of officers conducted by the nonprofit, 94% believed that community policing is essential, but only 29% were confident that officers have the resources to meet this goal. Heroes in Blue envisions helping officers get the training + tools needed to help individuals who need them the most – like the homeless, mentally ill or those living in extreme poverty.
Speakers at the rally will include Gov. McMaster, Kassy Alia herself + others. Watch an interview with Kassy here.
