Officer Dion Olson serves as the Community Resource Officer (CRO) for the Crestwood Police Department, where he plays a key role in public relations and community engagement. Officer Olson is responsible for leading D.A.R.E. classes, coordinating youth service programs, organizing speaker events, and handling station tours.
D.A.R.E. Classes: Officer Olson completed his initial D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Instructor Training at the Missouri State Highway Patrol Academy in 2002, one of the most rigorous and rewarding training programs for law enforcement officers committed to educating and supporting the community's youth. He currently teaches the Crestwood D.A.R.E. program in partnership with Holy Cross Academy at Our Lady of Providence. Over the years, Officer Olson has positively impacted the lives of thousands of students through this program.
Station Tours: Officer Olson also coordinates station tours, which must be arranged in advance. During these tours, participants have the opportunity to explore the police station, booking area, and jail, depending on the availability of prisoners. Officer Olson or another officer conducts the tours to ensure an educational and engaging experience.
Speaker Requests: As the point of contact for speaker requests, Officer Olson manages and coordinates the department's speaker engagements. Whether addressing a school group, community organization, or local event, he either personally handles the request or refers it to another officer with the appropriate expertise.
Officer Olson’s commitment to building positive relationships between the police department and the community, particularly with youth, has made him a valued member of the Crestwood Police Department.