Rapid Engagement of Support in the Event of Trauma (RESET)

The Roanoke Police Department is invested in a holistic, comprehensive strategy to combat gun violence and violent crime in our community. As such, we are proud to house the Rapid Engagement of Support in the Event of Trauma (RESET) Coordinator. 

The position is supported by a grant from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. The RESET Coordinator will be responsible for organizing and recruiting volunteers that will be part of a restorative program, not an investigative tool. The RESET Coordinator will lead a team of community volunteers to visit neighborhoods after the areas have experienced traumatic events, or they will go to areas where the citizens are continuously affected by ongoing criminal activity.  

“As a department, we are excited to bring another level of service to our community that we were previously not able to provide,” Chief Roman says about the position. “There is no doubt in my mind that Mr. Merchant and his team of volunteers are going to greatly improve the quality of life for individuals in neighborhoods that are continuously impacted by violent crime. Mr. Merchant already has strong, existing ties to the community that will only enhance the work he will be doing.”

Merchant’s position is a key element of what is identified in the Task Force Recommendations delivered to Roanoke City Council in November of 2019. 

The combination of intelligence-based, individual-offender focused policing, continued relationship building between the Roanoke Police Department and community members, and the longer-term actions of the Study Committee to Reduce Gun Violence are designed to slow the current pace of gun violence and make a lasting difference in ensuring the safety of all residents in the City of Roanoke.

To volunteer with the RESET Team or learn more about available services, please call (540)853-5304.