Town honors local jiu‑jitsu instructor for training support to police

The Township of Washington recognized Eric Tavares, owner of a local Brazilian jiu‑jitsu academy, for offering training space and instruction to municipal, county and state law‑enforcement personnel. Police officials said the statewide defensive tactics curriculum — now required for officers — was based in part on Brazilian jiu‑jitsu techniques, and they praised Tavares for opening his facility to instructors and officers.

Police Chief (presenter) described Tavares as a friend to officers who “gave us the keys” and noted that officers from multiple agencies have trained at his academy. Corporal David Ferris (introduced during the presentation) provided biographical context about Tavares’s training in Brazil and his competitive career; Tavares accepted the plaque and thanked the council and community.

The recognition was presented near the start of the council meeting before routine business items such as payment of bills and municipal announcements.