By JAN LARSON McLAUGHLIN
BG Independent News
For 18 years, Police Sgt. Adam Skaff has patrolled the streets of Bowling Green. In his current role on third shift, he handles crimes and concerns while most of the community sleeps.
Skaff will soon be adding listening to his arsenal of tools to keep Bowling Green safe and welcoming. He has volunteered to fill the newly-created role of police liaison for communities of color.
“I thought it was a good opportunity to make a difference,” Skaff said. “I thought it was something I would be good at.”
Earlier this summer, Bowling Green City Council adopted a resolution for racial equity – with one of the goals being to create a police liaison for people of color.
Skaff realizes he goes into the new position during a touchy time – when law enforcement is under heightened scrutiny after the killing of George Floyd.
But Skaff prefers to look at this as an opportunity – not a challenge.
“This is an opportunity for us to improve things,” he said. “We’re here to listen and learn.”
Skaff believes in Bowling Green Police Division. But he also knows that not everyone shares his perspective. He’s willing to take some heat to help solve problems.
“I understand we’re going to take some criticism,” he said. “I’ve got to not be defensive about it, so we can come up with solutions together.”
Skaff, who grew up in Toledo, initially thought about going to law school. But after going on a ride-along with a high school buddy’s dad, a Toledo police officer, Skaff changed course.
“I thought I would have a better opportunity to help people,” he said.
This liaison position will amplify those opportunities.
City Council’s resolution did not go into detail on the role of the liaison – but Skaff has some ideas.
First, he wants to form relationships. Some of that will be done through meetings with Not In Our Town, BGSU athletics, BRAVE and LaConexion. He also wants to reach out to LGBTQ groups and others who also might feel disenfranchised in the community.
“We want to be open to anyone who has a concern,” Skaff said. “If there’s a group we should know about, let us know.” (Email askaff@bgohio.org)
Skaff would like some of the meetings to be in more relaxed settings – like over a cookout or a game of ball.
“I want to build relationships so when these issues happen nationally,” people of color in Bowling Green will be able to say that this community is different.
Skaff understands the concerns and the lack of trust that some people of color have toward law enforcement. But as liaison, he wants those same people to feel comfortable bringing concerns to him.
“We can’t change the world, but we can make a difference here,” he said.
Skaff feels strongly that BGPD is a quality police division – but there is always room for improvement.
“We don’t have anything to hide. We’re accountable for our actions,” he said. “We want to know about our mistakes, so we can get better.”
