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Madera police to install trauma-informed 'soft' interview room furnished by nonprofit Phyllis's Garden
Summary
The council approved a memorandum of understanding enabling Phyllis's Garden to furnish a 'soft' interview room in the police department lobby to make initial victim interviews less clinical; the nonprofit supplies furnishings and the city installs and maintains consumables.
Chief Chermoney presented a memorandum of understanding with Phyllis's Garden, a nonprofit that supplies specially furnished 'soft' interview rooms designed to help victims of violent and sexual crimes feel safer during initial law-enforcement interviews. The furnishings—soft lighting, artwork, swivel chairs and discreet recording devices—are donated and become city property upon installation; the city will stock consumables (water, tissues) and install the furniture.
Chief Chermoney said the police department's existing interview rooms are often austere and can be intimidating for victims; offering a trauma-informed space at first contact can improve a victim's willingness to cooperate and recall details. Investigator Priscilla Ramirez brought the idea to the department, and staff described similar rooms used by other agencies.
Council members supported the MOU as a victim-centered step; the council approved the agreement unanimously. Staff said the nonprofit's logo will be displayed in the room and that the city will coordinate an unveiling with Phyllis's Garden once installation is complete.
