The FBI in Kentucky enhances community relations program | Crime

From Minerva Virola

LOUISVILLE, KY -  To do its job effectively, the FBI works with both government and private sector partners every day and at every level—local, state, federal, tribal, and international. In some cases, these partnerships directly support our investigations and operations. In other cases, they enable mutually beneficial information sharing that help us to better understand emerging threats and foster crime prevention initiatives.

In Kentucky, these relationships are a priority for Perrye K. Turner, special agent in charge of the FBI’s Louisville Division.  Turner has hired former Louisville Metro Police veteran Minerva Virola to build on the bureau’s existing program.

“Ms. Virola brings more than 20 years of law enforcement community relations experience with her from our partners at the Louisville Metropolitan Police Department”, said SAC Turner.  “Minerva was the state’s first Hispanic female law enforcement officer.  I’m confident she can expand the Bureau’s efforts to build even stronger relationships across the Commonwealth.”

FBI community outreach specialists create and strengthen relationships locally and nationally with minority groups, religious and civic organizations, schools, non-profits, and other groups. Through these relationships, ideas are exchanged  and misunderstandings dispelled which helps the FBI become more aware of community members resources and needs.  The program also helps build key contacts within organizations and communities. 

In some FBI offices, the community outreach specialists also serve as public information officers.  Ms. Virola will also serve in this capacity in Kentucky.

These partnerships have also led to a host of crime prevention programs, enabling families to keep safe from frauds and from cyber predators; businesses to protect themselves from hackers and economic espionage; schools and workplaces to safeguard themselves from violent rampages and from illegal drugs; and all citizens to become alert to potential acts of terror and extremism.

For more information on the FBI’s community outreach program, contact the FBI’s Louisville office at (502) 263-6000.