Ferguson Highway Patrol captain speaks at Peacemaker’s Conference

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Wilmington Police Department hosted Capt. Ron Johnson of the Missouri Highway Patrol, as the keynote speaker for the annual Peacemaker’s Conference.

Johnson has been nicknamed the “Peacemaker of Ferguson” for his efforts to defuse violence following the killing of unarmed black teen Michael Brown.

The goal of the two-day Peacemaker’s Conference was to bring together community leaders and law enforcement members from around the state to brainstorm and determine the best ways to combat crime in our community.

Today’s topics included bridging the gap between people and police and Johnson and Johnson commended Wilmington for bringing together a diverse group of community leaders. He believes it will help law enforcement to connect with all areas of the community.

“We’re here to serve the public and we have to serve that public and be consistent. It can’t be based on wealth, it can’t be based on zip codes. It has to be equal all across the board,” said Johnson.

Much of the captain’s speech focused on his experience in Ferguson as well as the importance for law enforcement to build trust within their communities.