Submitted by the Matt Thomassee Campaign
YOUNGSVILLE, LA (September 18, 2024) – Matt Thomassee is excited to release the “Thomassee Plan”, a comprehensive strategy to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the Youngsville Police Department (YPD), while fostering an environment conducive to business growth and family life.
The plan was developed after having several meetings with public officials, residents and other community stakeholders of the City of Youngsville. The valuable insight received in those conversations has allowed Matt to custom tailor a plan for the Youngsville Police Department which best addresses areas of concerns while developing a vision for the department which is community driven. Matt’s professional experience encompasses a wide range of competencies which not only make him uniquely qualified to serve as Youngsville Chief of Police, but also provide him with the knowledge, skills and training to implement this plan. Matt’s experience includes:
- Accreditation and Operations Management: As Accreditation Manager at the Lafayette Parish sheriff’s Office, Matt was instrumental in helping the agency become the first in Louisiana to earn the “Triple Crown Award,” signifying compliance with the highest standards of law enforcement practices. This achievement demonstrates Matt’s commitment to operational excellence and accountability in public safety.
- Training and Professional Development: Matt’s work as a Training Officer involved developing and implementing comprehensive training programs for both new recruits and experienced officers. Matt’s emphasis on continuous education aligns with best practices in modern policing, which stress the importance of ongoing training to adapt to evolving community needs and criminal behavior patterns.
- Applicant Screening and Recruitment: As a police recruit background investigator at the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Matt was instrumental in conducting through investigations into hundreds of applicants for employment. Matt knows firsthand the importance of selecting the right persons who will assimilate into a constructive agency culture which demands the highest levels of professionalism.
- Leadership and Community Engagement: By founding the Professional Association of Law Enforcement Officers (PALEO), a non-profit organization supporting law enforcement
officers across the state, Matt showcased his commitment to officer welfare and community safety. Working with the Police Association of Lafayette and the Lake Charles Police Association has also aided Matt in understanding of the complex issues facing police officers. Matt’s leadership style promotes trust, transparency, and collaboration between law enforcement and the community. - Private Sector Expertise: Matt’s experience in private investigations and corporate security has further honed his leadership skills and provided a broader perspective on law enforcement challenges, particularly in areas like cybersecurity, risk management, and crisis response.
The “Thomassee Plan” for the Youngsville Police Department is a comprehensive approach that integrates public safety, leadership, community engagement, and fiscal responsibility. Matt’s extensive experience, deep roots in the community, and commitment to transparency, integrity, and accountability make him the ideal candidate to lead Youngsville into a safer, more prosperous future. The Thomassee plan is built on core principles of effective policing: operational excellence, community partnership, and unwavering dedication to public service.
By implementing this plan, Matt aims to transition the police department to one that not only protects and serves but also truly partners with the community to create a safe and thriving environment for all residents of Youngsville. Matt hopes you will join and assist in the start of this new chapter for the City of Youngsville.
