Pastor plans law enforcement meeting

Thursday, Feb. 12, 2004 | 9:42 a.m.

Some of the top law enforcement officials in Clark County are expected to visit a Las Vegas church tonight for a panel discussion the church's pastor hopes leads to better communication, trust and respect between the police and black citizens.

The meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Victory Baptist Church at 500 W. Monroe Ave.

Local officials expected to attend include Sheriff Bill Young, District Attorney David Roger, County Public Defender Ralph Baker, North Las Vegas Police Chief Mark Paresi, North Las Vegas Municipal Judge Warren Van Landschoot and North Las Vegas City Attorney Sean McGowan.

Church Pastor Robert Fowler said he called for the meeting because he feels there is mistrust and disrespect between the local black community and law enforcement.

"This is our church's attempt to do what we can to be a bridge to the community," he said.

Fowler estimated 97 percent of his congregation's 10,000 members are black.

Fowler commended Young and Pacini for recognizing there is a problem with the relationship between police and minorities and for being willing to meet to try to find a solution.

"Sheriff Young and Chief Paresi have agreed this dialogue needs to take place," Fowler said.